Following a below-knee amputation, the patient expresses anger about the surgery. What should the nurse do first?

The patient expressing anger about the surgery indicates a strong emotional response to a significant and life-altering event. The first priority for the nurse should be to engage in therapeutic communication, which helps to establish a supportive environment where the patient feels heard and understood. In this situation, using therapeutic communication conveys empathy and validates the patient’s feelings, allowing them to explore their emotions more openly. This approach not only demonstrates compassion but also lays the groundwork for building trust, which is essential for effective patient-nurse relationships.

By actively listening and acknowledging the patient's feelings, the nurse can help the patient process their anger and begin to address any concerns regarding their health, treatment, or recovery. This emotional support can be critical for the patient's overall well-being and can facilitate a more positive outlook as they adjust to changes after the amputation.

In contrast, immediately changing the dressing, notifying hospital administration, or documenting intent to sue do not directly address the patient's emotional needs and may even escalate feelings of frustration rather than alleviate them. Prioritizing emotional support through empathetic communication is essential in fostering a healing environment for the patient.