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?

Rationale: A. "I understand that my scars will eventually fade.": This statement reflects acceptance and understanding of the healing process rather than distress about appearance. It indicates the client is cognitively processing changes without expressing body image disturbance. B. "I am ready to join a breast cancer support group.": Willingness to participate in a support group demonstrates coping and adjustment. The client is seeking social and emotional support, which is a healthy response to surgery rather than a sign of altered body image. C. "I want to have reconstructive surgery as soon as I can.": Desire for reconstructive surgery is a proactive coping strategy and a way to regain body image control. It reflects planning for recovery rather than expressing negative feelings about current body changes. D. "I prefer to leave the lights off when I am changing my clothes.": Avoiding exposure of the body and seeking darkness when changing clothes indicates discomfort and distress with physical appearance. This behavior reflects an altered body image and difficulty accepting the changes after surgery.