Which of the following is a potential psychological need for patients in a medical-surgical setting?

In a medical-surgical setting, patients often experience a range of emotional and psychological challenges. The need for support and comfort is fundamental because it can significantly impact a patient’s recovery and overall well-being. Emotional support can help alleviate anxiety, fear, and uncertainty that patients may encounter when dealing with health issues or undergoing medical procedures. Providing comfort through empathetic communication, reassurance, and a nurturing environment fosters a sense of security and promotes a positive outlook, which can enhance healing.

While knowledge of disease, medication adherence, and fall prevention are important aspects of patient care, they primarily focus on informational and physical safety needs. They do not directly address the psychological aspect of patient care as thoroughly as support and comfort do. Knowledge may empower patients, medication adherence is essential for treatment efficacy, and fall prevention is crucial for physical safety, but none specifically cater to the emotional and psychological comfort that patients desperately seek during vulnerable times. Thus, support and comfort play a pivotal role in addressing the psychological needs of patients in a medical-surgical environment.