During admission to the unit,a patient states,"I'm not worried about the results of my tests.I'm sure I'll be all right." As he observes the patient,the nurse notes that the patient is shaky,tearful,and does not make eye contact.Unfortunately,the nurse is called away to an emergency before he has time to complete this discussion.Which of the following goals is most appropriate for the nurse to establish when returning to the patient? The patient will:

A) Explain the reason for his incongruent statements
B) Engage in diversional activities to cope with stress
C) Express his concerns to his primary care provider
D) Discuss his concerns and fears with the nurse

The nurse has observed a mismatch between verbal and nonverbal communication.Unfortunately,an emergency has required the nurse to leave the patient.To resolve this mismatch,the nurse will set a goal to have the patient discuss his concerns and fears at their next interaction.It is inappropriate to ask the patient to explain why his verbal message did not match the nonverbal message because this will inhibit further conversation.It may be appropriate to have the patient discuss his concerns with his primary care provider; however,we do not have enough information to suggest this course of action.For example,if the patient is upset about some other matter,this action would not be appropriate.Similarly,it is not appropriate to suggest diversional activities until the reason for the mismatch between his words and behavior is identified.