A nurse in a mental health facility is caring for a client who is upset about the loss of privileges due to repetitive negative behavior. Which of the following statements by the nurse demonstrates the effective use of assertive communication?
"Why did you make the choice to behave negatively?”
"You need to calm down and forgive me before discussing this matter any further.”
"You were made aware of the consequences of negative behavior so you better go to your room.”
"I understand that you are angry. However, I followed the appropriate protocol.”
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
This response uses a confrontational tone and places blame on the client for their behavior, which is not an example of assertive communication. It can potentially escalate the situation and hinder effective communication.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is authoritarian in nature, using phrases like "you need to" and "forgive me," which can further upset the client and create a power struggle. It lacks empathy and understanding, making it ineffective for assertive communication.
Choice C rationale:
While this response acknowledges the consequences of the client's negative behavior, it uses commanding language ("you better go to your room"), which can be perceived as aggressive and may escalate the situation instead of facilitating effective communication.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is the most effective example of assertive communication. It acknowledges the client's feelings ("I understand that you are angry") while also asserting the nurse's adherence to protocol. This response demonstrates empathy, understanding, and a willingness to address the client's emotions in a non-confrontational manner.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"This is supposed to happen when you get old, right?" is a common misconception but doesn't necessarily support the diagnosis of delirium. It could be attributed to normal aging changes.
Choice B rationale:
"Since his mother died, he has not been feeling well." indicates a potential stressor but doesn't directly address the rapid onset of behavioral changes, which is a hallmark of delirium.
Choice C rationale:
"My husband just didn't seem to know what he was doing. He has been forgetful for years." suggests a history of forgetfulness rather than an acute change in behavior, which is more indicative of chronic cognitive issues like dementia.
Choice D rationale:
(Correct) "The changes in his behavior came on so quickly! I wasn't sure what was happening." This statement supports the diagnosis of delirium, which is characterized by a sudden onset of confusion and changes in cognitive function. Delirium often develops rapidly, and the client's wife's observation aligns with this diagnostic criterion.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Suspended from school several times in the past year.
Choice A rationale:
The client's father's recent death (Choice A) is not a typical expected assessment finding of conduct disorder. While emotional disturbances can be associated with conduct disorder, the primary characteristics involve behavioral issues rather than reactions to significant life events.
Choice B rationale:
Adhering strictly to routines (Choice B) is not a common expected assessment finding of conduct disorder. Conduct disorder is characterized by patterns of defiant and disruptive behaviors, not necessarily a rigid adherence to routines.
Choice C rationale:
Suspended from school several times in the past year (Choice C) aligns with the expected assessment findings of conduct disorder. Conduct disorder often involves aggressive behavior towards others, violation of rules, and disregard for the rights of others, which can lead to disciplinary actions such as school suspensions.
Choice D rationale:
Experiencing frequent facial tics (Choice D) is not a typical expected assessment finding of conduct disorder. Facial tics are associated with conditions like Tourette's syndrome or other tic disorders, not conduct disorder.
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