For the patient undergoing craniotomy, when should the nurse provide information about wigs/hairpieces or other methods to disguise hair loss?

• A. During preoperative teaching
• B. If the patient asks about their use
• C. In the immediate postoperative period
• D. When the patient expresses negative feelings about his or her appearance

Answer: (A)

Proactive patient education should cover anticipated body image changes and coping options before surgery. A craniotomy often leads to hair styling changes or hair loss around the incision, so discussing wigs or other disguises during preoperative teaching gives the patient time to consider options, arrange for fit or purchase, and discuss preferences with the care team. This preparation helps reduce anxiety, supports coping with appearance changes, and allows plans to be in place before recovery begins.

Discussing wigs only after surgery when the patient is recovering from anesthesia or in pain is less effective, and waiting for the patient to bring up appearance concerns later may miss the opportunity to plan. If the patient asks about disguising hair loss, that is appropriate to address, but including the topic in preoperative teaching ensures it’s not overlooked.