How should a nurse encourage a 13-year-old girl with scoliosis to manage her feelings about treatment?

Encouraging a 13-year-old girl with scoliosis to voice her concerns and explore support options is vital for her emotional well-being and coping mechanisms. Open communication provides an opportunity for her to articulate her feelings about her treatment and the condition itself, which can alleviate anxiety and promote understanding. By engaging in dialogue, the nurse can also help the girl identify coping strategies and resources, such as support groups or counseling services, that can enhance her resilience during treatment. This approach fosters a sense of agency, allowing her to feel more in control of her situation while also receiving necessary emotional support.

In contrast, assigning additional homework would not address her emotional needs and may increase her stress. Avoiding discussions about her condition denies her the chance to process her feelings and might lead to further isolation or misunderstanding. Suggesting that she will adjust in time can come off as dismissive and may not acknowledge her immediate concerns, which could hinder her ability to express and manage her emotions effectively. Overall, allowing her to voice her concerns is a supportive and validating approach to managing her treatment experience.