A nurse is caring for a client with a new diagnosis of acute kidney injury. The client states, “This is going to mess my life up.” Which of the following is the best response by the nurse to assist the client to begin to understand the impact of this disease?
A “You have just been diagnosed so it really won’t impact your life too much right away.”
B “With all the treatments they have for this disease, you will be okay.”
C “The only concern related to the disease that clients have are financial concerns.”
D “Clients with this disease typically have concerns with finances, treatment, and adjusting to a new normal.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The best response by the nurse in this situation is:
D: “Clients with this disease typically have concerns with finances, treatment, and adjusting to a new normal.”
Explanation:
When a client is newly diagnosed with a condition such as acute kidney injury (AKI), it’s common for them to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about how this diagnosis will affect their life. It’s essential for the nurse to validate these feelings and provide a realistic overview of the potential impacts of the disease.
Option D is the most appropriate response because it acknowledges the multifaceted impact of the diagnosis. Clients with AKI often have a range of concerns:
- Finances: Treatment for AKI, which might include dialysis or other interventions, can be costly. Clients may worry about the financial burden of these treatments and how it will affect their daily life.
- Treatment: Understanding the course of treatment, potential side effects, and the need for ongoing medical care can be daunting. Clients need to be informed about what to expect and how they can manage their health moving forward.
- Adjusting to a New Normal: AKI can lead to significant lifestyle changes, including dietary restrictions, changes in daily routines, and possible long-term health management. Adapting to these changes can be challenging for clients as they navigate their new reality.
Option A is incorrect because it minimizes the potential impact of the diagnosis. Even though the effects of AKI may not be immediately severe, the emotional and psychological impact can still be significant.
Option B is overly optimistic and does not address the client’s concerns comprehensively. While treatment advancements can improve outcomes, it’s crucial to recognize that clients may still face significant challenges.
Option C is not entirely accurate because financial concerns are only one aspect of what clients might experience. Focusing solely on finances neglects other critical areas such as treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
By acknowledging the various aspects of how AKI can affect a person’s life, the nurse provides a more balanced and supportive response, helping the client to understand and cope with the diagnosis better.