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