CPAN Practice Exam – Comprehensive Guide for Exam Prep

Providing reassurance and supportive communication to a patient experiencing anxiety during recovery is crucial in a Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) setting. This approach helps to alleviate the patient's fears and fosters a sense of safety, which can significantly enhance the recovery experience. Anxiety can be a common response to anesthesia and surgery, often stemming from the effects of medications, unfamiliar surroundings, or concerns about health outcomes.

When the nurse engages in reassuring communication, it allows the patient to express their feelings and emotions, which are essential for their mental well-being. Supportive dialogue not only validates the patient's experience but can also help to distract them from their anxiety, allowing the patient to focus on their recovery. Techniques such as simple reassurances about the recovery process and the effectiveness of pain management can make a substantial difference.

The other options, such as ignoring the patient’s concerns or encouraging silence, are counterproductive. They can lead to increased anxiety and feelings of abandonment. Calling a physician immediately may not be necessary unless the anxiety escalates to a level that indicates a medical issue, which is typically not the case in most post-anesthesia scenarios. Thus, providing reassurance and supportive communication not only addresses the immediate emotional needs of the patient but also promotes a more positive recovery environment.