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 ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
Answer and explanation
The correct answers are choices A. Depression, B. Obsessive-compulsive disorder, E. Anxiety.
Choice A rationale:
Depression commonly coexists with eating disorders. The individual's distorted body image, feelings of low self-worth, and dietary restrictions can contribute to the development of depressive symptoms.

Choice B rationale:
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often occurs alongside eating disorders. The obsessions and compulsions seen in OCD can overlap with behaviors related to food, eating rituals, and body image, reinforcing the eating disorder pathology.
Choice C rationale:
Schizophrenia is not typically considered a comorbidity of eating disorders. Schizophrenia involves disruptions in thought processes, emotions, and perceptions, which are distinct from the cognitive distortions and behaviors associated with eating disorders.
Choice D rationale:
Breathing-related sleep disorder is not a commonly recognized comorbidity of eating disorders. While sleep disturbances might occur in individuals with eating disorders due to physical discomfort or anxiety, a specific link to breathing-related sleep disorder is less established.
Choice E rationale:
Anxiety is a well-recognized comorbidity of eating disorders. Anxiety often accompanies the intense fears, worries, and preoccupations related to body weight, shape, and eating behaviors that are characteristic of eating disorders.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is: A, B, C, D.
Choice A reason: Shortening a reading activity when the child appears to become frustrated can help prevent the child from becoming overwhelmed and acting out. This is a common strategy used in managing children with conduct disorders.
Choice B reason: Introducing humor during interactions with the child can help build rapport and make the child feel more comfortable. It can also serve as a positive distraction and reduce tension.
Choice C reason: Redirecting with physical activities when the child’s disruptive behavior begins can serve as a healthy outlet for the child’s energy and frustrations. Physical activities can also help improve the child’s mood and reduce disruptive behaviors.
Choice D reason: Explaining to the child the importance of picking up crayons when thrown on the floor can help teach the child responsibility and respect for their environment. This can also be a part of behavioral therapy where the child learns about consequences of their actions.
Choice E reason: Placing the child in a vest restraint when disruptive behavior occurs is not recommended. Using physical restraints can be traumatizing and should only be used as a last resort when the child’s behavior poses a risk to themselves or others. It’s always better to use de-escalation techniques and positive reinforcement to manage disruptive behavior.
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