A nurse is caring for a client who has breast cancer and is postoperative following a bilateral mastectomy. Which of the following statements indicates the client has an altered body image?

Choice A reason: Preferring loose clothing to hide scars indicates an altered body image, as it reflects discomfort with physical changes post-mastectomy. This behavior suggests emotional distress about appearance, a common response to surgical body alterations, making it the correct indicator. Choice B reason: Joining a support group shows proactive coping and acceptance, not necessarily an altered body image. It reflects social engagement and resilience, not distress about physical changes, making it incorrect for indicating body image concerns. Choice C reason: Feeling confident about recovery suggests positive adjustment, not an altered body image. Confidence indicates emotional resilience rather than distress about physical appearance post-mastectomy, making this statement incorrect for this concern. Choice D reason: Planning to resume exercise indicates focus on recovery and health, not body image distress. This proactive attitude reflects physical rehabilitation goals, not emotional concerns about appearance, making it incorrect for altered body image.