What is the best nursing action if a patient refuses to look at their stoma?

Encouraging the patient to share their concerns and ask questions is a crucial nursing action in this scenario, as it promotes open communication and supports the patient’s emotional well-being. When a patient refuses to look at their stoma, it may indicate anxiety, fear, or distress about their condition. By creating a safe and supportive environment where the patient feels comfortable expressing their feelings, the nurse can better understand the patient's perspective and address any underlying fears or misconceptions.

This approach allows the nurse to provide education tailored to the patient’s specific concerns, potentially alleviating anxiety and fostering a sense of control over their care. Engaging the patient in a dialogue can also aid in building trust and recognizing the importance of the stoma in their overall health management.

The other choices do not adequately support the patient's emotional or educational needs in this situation. Respecting privacy without engaging in discussion may leave the patient feeling isolated or unsupported. Insisting that they look at the stoma could increase their anxiety and resistance. Providing written instructions, while helpful, does not address the emotional aspect of the patient's refusal and may not be effective if they are too distressed to engage with the material.