What nursing actions can motivate a depressed patient with a facial scar after surgery?

Focusing on the patient's facial scar and providing reassurance about its healing process is crucial in fostering a supportive environment. By examining the scar, the nurse shows attentiveness and validates the patient's feelings, which can help in rebuilding their self-esteem. This action demonstrates empathy and allows the patient to express any concerns they may have about their appearance or self-image.

Acknowledging the healing process is a positive reinforcement that can encourage the patient to engage in their recovery. It signifies to the patient that their physical appearance can improve, and that their emotional well-being is important to the nurse. Establishing clear communication about progress can help mitigate feelings of depression and promote a sense of hope, which plays a vital role in self-concept and overall psychological health.

The other options, while they may have some intention of addressing the patient's feelings, do not effectively support the patient's emotional needs or encourage motivation. For instance, avoiding eye contact can exacerbate feelings of shame or self-consciousness, while minimizing the severity of the scar could lead to a perceived lack of understanding or validation of the patient’s experience. Discussing surgical alternatives may not provide immediate emotional relief and might shift focus away from supporting the patient’s current feelings and needs.