Powerlessness

Powerlessness experienced post-operatively can be related to lack of knowledge, previous inadequate coping patterns, and insufficient decision-making opportunities.

The nurse can help the patient post-operatively by:

• Increasing regular, frequent communication between patient and health care provider.

• Explaining all procedures, rules, plans and options to patient.

• Allowing time to answer questions.

• Keeping patient informed about schedule, condition, treatments, and results.

• Anticipating questions, interest, and offering information.

• Pointing out positive changes in patient’s condition.

• Allowing patient to verbalize concerns and feelings.

• Providing consistent staffing within framework of primary nursing.

• Discussing daily plan of activities and allowing patient to make as many decisions as possible.

• Keeping promises.

• Providing daily recognition of progress, praise gains and achievements .

• Assessing patient’s usual responses to problems and stressors.

• Identify short-term realistic goals and give positive reinforcement when achieved

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