A mastectomy patient with moderate anxiety asks for strategies to feel better about the surgery. What is the nurse's best response?

• A. Let me stay with you. Focus on my voice and breathe deeply.
• B. Explain the risks of the procedure.
• C. Offer only pain medication.
• D. Suggest immediate hospital discharge.

Answer: (A)

Managing moderate preoperative anxiety hinges on supportive presence and simple coping techniques. When a nurse stays with the patient and uses a calm voice to guide slow, deep breaths, the body’s fight-or-flight response begins to ease. This approach offers immediate emotional reassurance, helps the patient feel less alone, and creates a safe space to address specific fears or questions. The nurse can observe cues, validate concerns, and provide gentle reassurance while encouraging breathing to reduce tension and normalize emotions.

Explaining risks is important, but doing so without accompanying reassurance can heighten worry in the moment. Offering only pain medication misses the emotional support the patient needs, and suggesting discharge right away would be unsafe given the surgical context. The most effective response combines presence with simple, practical coping strategies that directly reduce anxiety and build trust.