An older adult client who is scheduled for surgery tomorrow becomes quiet and withdrawn after family members leave. Which action should the practical nurse take?

A. Close the room door to allow the client some quiet and privacy: Providing privacy can be helpful, but in this situation, the client’s withdrawal may indicate anxiety or fear. Simply closing the door does not address the emotional needs that often arise before surgery. B. Use an open-ended statement to encourage communication: Open-ended statements invite the client to express thoughts and feelings freely, allowing the nurse to assess concerns about the upcoming surgery. This fosters trust, therapeutic communication, and emotional support. C. Express concern and empathy for the client's loneliness: While showing empathy is important, assuming the client is lonely may not accurately reflect the client’s emotional state. The nurse should first explore what the client is feeling through open-ended conversation. D. Affirm that facing surgery can be a frightening experience: Offering reassurance without assessing the client’s actual feelings may seem presumptive. It is more therapeutic to first allow the client to verbalize specific fears or concerns before providing reassurance or education.