A nurse is collecting data from a client who has a newly placed colostomy. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse the client has accepted their new altered body image?

A. Denies feelings of sadness about the ostomy: Denial of sadness may indicate avoidance or suppression of emotions rather than true acceptance. Clients may still be struggling internally despite outwardly denying negative feelings, so this alone is not a reliable indicator of acceptance. B. Participates in performing ostomy care: Actively engaging in self-care demonstrates adaptation to the altered body image and a willingness to manage the ostomy. Participation reflects acceptance, independence, and confidence in coping with lifestyle changes associated with the stoma. C. Prefers not to look at the stoma site: Avoiding the stoma indicates discomfort or distress with body changes and suggests the client has not fully accepted their new body image. This behavior is more indicative of denial or anxiety rather than adaptation. D. Accepts that sexual activity will decrease: Believing sexual activity will decrease may reflect misconceptions or fear rather than true acceptance. Acceptance of altered body image involves active coping and integration into daily life, not just resignation to perceived limitations.