What nursing action is appropriate for a patient exhibiting altered coping?

Encouraging therapeutic communication is particularly appropriate for a patient exhibiting altered coping because it creates a supportive environment where the patient can express their feelings, concerns, and difficulties. This form of communication can lead to better understanding and help the patient articulate their coping challenges, which is vital in managing their mental and emotional health.

Therapeutic communication also assists in building trust between the nurse and the patient, allowing for a more open dialogue and providing the nurse with valuable insights into the patient's situation. This approach can help identify specific coping mechanisms the patient may need to develop or enhance and facilitate a connection between the patient and various support resources.

Other actions, while important in different contexts, do not directly address the coping difficulties the patient is facing. For instance, administering pain medication targets physical discomfort but doesn't address the emotional or psychological aspects of altered coping. Providing dietary advice focuses on nutritional aspects rather than coping strategies, and initiating physical therapy targets physical mobility rather than psychological support. By focusing on therapeutic communication, the nurse can more effectively address and assist the patient in regaining their coping abilities.