How do you provide emotional support to patients who are anxious or fearful about medical procedures?

Sample interview questions: How do you provide emotional support to patients who are anxious or fearful about medical procedures?

Sample answer:

1. Assess the Patient’s Anxiety Level:
2. Engage in active listening to understand the patient’s concerns, fears, and underlying emotions.
3. Ask open-ended questions to encourage the patient to express their feelings and apprehensions.

4. Observe non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, to assess the level of anxiety.

5. Establish a Therapeutic Relationship:

6. Introduce yourself and explain your role as a medical-surgical nurse.
7. Demonstrate empathy and understanding by acknowledging the patient’s feelings.

8. Maintain a calm and reassuring demeanor to create a safe and supportive environment.

9. Provide Accurate and Clear Information:

10. Offer age-appropriate and easy-to-understand explanations about the upcoming medical procedures.
11. Address any misconceptions or uncertainties the patient may have.

12. Encourage the patient to ask questions and clarify doubts.

13. Promote Relaxation Techniques:

14. Suggest simple relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation, or guided imagery, to help the patient manage anxiety.
15. Provide a quiet and comfortable environment to facilitate relaxation.

16. Offer support and encouragement during relaxation exercises.

17. Promote a Sense of Control:

18. Encourage the patient to participate in decision-making related to their care, such as choosing the time and location of the procedure.
19. Offer options for pain management and anxiety-reducing medications, if appropriate.

20. Allow the patient to bring personal items, such as … Read full answer

    Source: https://hireabo.com/job/2_0_25/Medical-Surgical%20Nurse