If a client expresses anxiety about undergoing surgery, what should a nurse do first?

When a client expresses anxiety about undergoing surgery, the priority for a nurse is to create a safe space for the client to express their feelings without judgment. This approach is critical because it allows the client to articulate their fears and concerns, which can help reduce anxiety. Active listening and validation of their feelings can foster a trusting nurse-client relationship and open the door to further communication.

By addressing the client's emotional state first, the nurse can better understand the specific sources of anxiety, which may inform subsequent interventions or education about the surgery. Acknowledging and exploring these feelings can lead to providing appropriate support, whether that includes providing information, reassurance, or referrals for additional help, such as counseling, if needed. This patient-centered approach is essential in nursing care, particularly when dealing with sensitive matters such as surgical anxiety.