NCLEX: A 49-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for skin and wound assessment during hospital…

Health assessment Reduction of Risk Potential

Case Study

A 49-year-old client in the emergency department is being evaluated for skin and wound assessment during hospitalization. Assessment data include pain 9/10 and guards the abdomen after surgery. Which nurse response best supports psychosocial integrity?

Question

A. False reassurance that nothing is wrong.
B. Therapeutic presence, active listening, validation, and suicide or violence screening when indicated.
C. Changing the subject when the client expresses fear.
D. Promising outcomes that cannot be guaranteed.

Rationale

Correct answer: B. Therapeutic presence, active listening, validation, and suicide or violence screening when indicated.

Rationale: Psychosocial integrity items reward therapeutic communication and appropriate safety screening, not avoidance or false promises.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Clinical

Difficulty: Medium

Subtopic: Skin and wound assessment