The patient who is postoperative and silent about the incision: which response is most appropriate?

• A. It is normal to feel angry and depressed, but the sooner you deal with this surgery, the better you will feel.
• B. Looking at your incision can be frightening, but facing this fear is a necessary part of your recovery.
• C. It is OK if you don't want to talk about your surgery. I will be available when you are ready.
• D. I will ask a woman who has had a mastectomy to come by and share her experiences with you.

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is therapeutic communication that respects the patient’s readiness to discuss sensitive topics. After surgery, a patient may feel overwhelmed or anxious about the incision, and pressuring them to talk can increase distress or erode trust. Saying you’re available when they’re ready gives a calm, nonjudgmental offer of support while honoring their pace and privacy. It tells them they control whether and when discussion happens, which helps build safety and rapport.

Other options push the patient to face or discuss the incision now, which can feel coercive or judgmental, or involve bringing in another person without clear consent, which may intrude on privacy or create pressure. The preferred response supports autonomy and sets a caring, patient-centered tone.