A client has been on the nursing unit for a few weeks because of complications after surgery, including the need for extensive wound care. During the last dressing change before discharge to home with home health services, the client becomes angry and says, “You don’t have to be so careful. I’m being sent home anyway!” Which response, if made by the nurse WOULD NOT be therapeutic? Select one answer

Choice A reason: “I hear frustration or perhaps anger in your voice. Could you tell me more about how you are feeling right now?” is a therapeutic response, not a non-therapeutic one. This response shows active listening, which is a communication skill that involves hearing, understanding, and responding to the client’s verbal and nonverbal messages. It also shows empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It acknowledges and validates the client’s emotions, and invites them to express their concerns or fears. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B reason: “It sounds as though you are nervous about going home, but the wound care nurse who will see you also uses excellent technique I am sure your wound will continue to heal.” is a non-therapeutic response, not a therapeutic one. This response shows false reassurance, which is a communication technique that involves minimizing or dismissing the other person’s feelings or situation. It also shows assumption, which is a communication barrier that involves making judgments or guesses about what the other person thinks or feels. It does not address the client’s emotions or needs, and may sound vague or insincere. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice C reason: “Do you have any concerns about what will happen after discharge that you would like to talk about?” is a therapeutic response, not a non-therapeutic one. This response shows open-ended questioning, which is a communication technique that involves asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer. It also shows support, which is a communication technique that involves providing emotional or practical assistance to the client, and helping them cope with their situation or problem. It encourages the client to share their thoughts and feelings, and shows that the nurse is interested, supportive, and empathetic. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice D reason: “Many people who have been in the hospital for an extended period have mixed feelings about going home. Can you tell me how you are feeling about discharge?” is a therapeutic response, not a non-therapeutic one. This response shows generalization, which is a communication technique that involves using statements that apply to most people in similar situations. It also shows reflection, which is a communication technique that involves restating or paraphrasing what the client has said to show understanding and clarify meaning. It helps the client to feel less alone or isolated, and to explore their own feelings or thoughts. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.