Encourage expressions of feelings about social patterns and society norms to improve recognition of feelings and foster open discussion.- Assure patient that you're willing to discuss all topics. Assure patient that all information will be kept confidential to encourage honest discussion of concerns.
- Encourage the patient to explore feelings related to vital topics to promote trust and provide time when the patient can discuss feelings confidentially.
- Listen to patient's concerns about difficulties in making a decision. Use a nonjudgmental approach and encourage expression of feelings to demonstrate acceptance of patient and respect for the patient's culture, beliefs, and value system.
- Assist patient with the process of decision-making in relation to daily activities. Learning the process will provide the patient with a framework for decision-making and enhance patient's feelings of self-confidence when making more difficult health care decisions.
- Help patient make decisions about daily activities to enhance feelings of autonomy.
- Encourage visits with family, friends, and clergy; provide privacy during visits to foster emotional support.
Teach progressive muscle relaxation techniques to decrease physical and psychological signs of tension.
Help patient identify decision-making areas that require assistance from others and provide appropriate referrals. Providing referrals will ensure ongoing support. Putting patient in touch with appropriate community resources will help promote feeling that others are genuinely interested in patient's well-being.- Refer patient for long-term counseling if necessary. Long-standing emotional conflicts may require in-depth intervention.
Suggested NIC Interventions