How should the nurse respond to a client who is hesitant about surgery for a cystocele?

The most appropriate response in this scenario is to communicate the potential risks associated with untreated cystoceles. Informing the client that there is a risk of kidney damage helps underscore the seriousness of the condition and the importance of addressing it medically. A cystocele, which involves the protrusion of the bladder into the anterior wall of the vagina, may lead to complications if left untreated. For instance, increased pressure on the bladder can impair its function over time, potentially leading to urinary retention or recurrent urinary tract infections, which could in serious cases affect kidney function.

This response is informative and emphasizes the need for careful consideration of the condition’s long-term impacts rather than dismissing surgery entirely. It is important for the nurse to support the client in making an informed decision about their health care options.

Addressing the other options, one minimizes the urgency of the situation by suggesting surgery should be avoided when it might actually be necessary. Saying the client should wait until the condition worsens dismisses the risks of complications and could lead to further health deterioration. Finally, implying that alternative treatments are more effective than surgery may mislead the client, as surgery is often the most definitive treatment for a cystocele and its effectiveness is well-supported in clinical practice.