What nursing action is most appropriate for addressing a patient’s self-concept regarding an impending colostomy?

The most appropriate nursing action in addressing a patient's self-concept regarding an impending colostomy is to show a video about a healthy functioning body after a colostomy. This approach provides the patient with a visual and educational resource that can significantly impact their understanding and acceptance of the procedure. By illustrating the potential for a positive quality of life post-surgery, the video can help to alleviate fears and misconceptions the patient may have about living with a colostomy.

This method supports the patient's self-concept by promoting a realistic and hopeful outlook on their body’s functioning after the procedure. It encourages patients to visualize themselves as capable and functioning individuals, which can be critical in fostering a positive self-image during such a challenging transition. Additionally, watching others thrive with similar experiences can serve as a motivational factor, making the prospect of undergoing a colostomy feel more manageable.

Other methods, while potentially beneficial in certain contexts, do not directly address the patient's self-concept in a comprehensive manner. For instance, showing a colostomy bag may focus more on the device itself rather than the overall idea of living healthily post-surgery. Informing the surgeon about the patient’s anxiety could be a step toward helping the patient, but it may not provide immediate support