What should be the focus of patient care when a nurse is assessing for emotional distress?

Focusing on finding effective ways to communicate and support the patient is essential when assessing for emotional distress. Emotional distress often manifests in various ways, including through verbal and non-verbal communication. By prioritizing effective communication, the nurse creates a safe environment for the patient to express their feelings, concerns, and fears. This approach allows for a better understanding of the patient's emotional state and enables the nurse to provide personalized support and interventions.

Effective communication can also help in building a therapeutic relationship, which is vital for patient trust and openness. When patients feel heard and understood, they are more likely to engage in their care actively and collaborate on treatment plans that address both their emotional and physical health needs.

In contrast, focusing solely on physical signs of distress neglects the emotional components that can significantly impact a patient's overall well-being. Determining admission requirements or minimizing expressions of feelings does not support the patient’s emotional needs and may hinder the ability to address the root causes of distress. Therefore, the focus should be on empathetic communication and support to promote better emotional health and recovery.