A patient expresses vague responses concerning the postoperative period. What nursing diagnosis would be most appropriate?

The most appropriate nursing diagnosis in this situation is related to the patient's expression of vague responses, which indicates a potential lack of understanding regarding the postoperative period. The diagnosis of deficient knowledge, postoperative, reflects the possibility that the patient may not fully comprehend the expectations, care needs, or signs of complications associated with recovery following surgery.

Patients who are not informed about their postoperative care may struggle to articulate their needs or concerns clearly, leading to vague responses. This lack of clarity can hinder effective communication and lead to misunderstandings, which is why addressing knowledge gaps is vital for enhancing patient outcomes.

By identifying the nursing diagnosis as deficient knowledge, the nurse can implement educational interventions to provide the necessary information about what the patient should expect after surgery, promote effective communication, and ensure the patient feels more confident and capable of discussing their condition in the postoperative phase.