A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a mastectomy. The client states, “I can’t stand to look at that incision. It makes me feel so ugly.” Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A reason: Focusing on survival dismisses the client’s emotional distress, potentially invalidating their feelings. Addressing body image concerns empathetically fosters trust, making this an inappropriate and unsupportive response. Choice B reason: Inviting the client to discuss feelings about the incision validates their emotions and promotes therapeutic communication. This open-ended approach supports coping with body image changes, making it the best response. Choice C reason: Normalizing feelings is helpful, but stating the incision will heal soon minimizes the client’s distress. Exploring emotions is more therapeutic, as healing does not address body image, making this less effective. Choice D reason: Discussing clothing to cover the incision is practical but avoids the emotional issue. Addressing feelings first supports psychological adjustment, making this a secondary intervention compared to open dialogue.