A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who states, "I am overwhelmed by stress, and nobody is helping me." Which of the following represents a therapeutic response by the nurse?
“I am trying to help you, but you haven't told me why you are overwhelmed yet."
"Have you tried to avoid the situations that are causing you so much stress?"
“Tell me about what you are doing to reduce or cope with your stress."
“I would like to help you. Can you tell me more about what you are feeling?"
The Correct Answer is D
A. "I am trying to help you, but you haven't told me why you are overwhelmed yet." This response sounds dismissive and places responsibility on the client, which may increase their frustration.
B. "Have you tried to avoid the situations that are causing you so much stress?" Avoidance is not a healthy coping mechanism and does not encourage the client to express their feelings.
C. "Tell me about what you are doing to reduce or cope with your stress." While this encourages self-reflection, it does not validate the client’s distress or express empathy.
D. "I would like to help you. Can you tell me more about what you are feeling?" This response shows empathy, offers support, and invites the client to express their emotions, which are key aspects of therapeutic communication.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. An adult client is confined with physical restraints after throwing chairs at other clients and staff. Physical restraints are highly restrictive and should be used as a last resort when safety is at risk.
B. An adolescent is taken to a secure, quiet room after threatening and lashing out at other clients and staff. Seclusion is restrictive but less so than physical restraints; however, other interventions should be attempted first.
C. An 8-year-old child is asked to return to their room after yelling at other children during a group therapy session. This is the least restrictive intervention, as it involves verbal redirection rather than confinement or medication.
D. An adult client is given clozapine, an antipsychotic medication, after punching a wall with their fist and telling everyone that they intend to hurt them. Medication can be restrictive when used for behavior control rather than for medical necessity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Avoid eye contact with the client to prevent the client from feeling awkward. Avoiding eye contact may come off as dismissive and can hinder rapport-building.
B. Remain silent after asking the client a question to allow the client a chance to respond. Using therapeutic silence gives the client time to gather their thoughts and feel heard.
C. Ask questions that only require one-word answers to prevent anxiety about answering detailed questions. Open-ended questions encourage communication and help establish trust.
D. Have music on in the background to distract the client from being anxious. Music might be a distraction rather than a rapport-building tool, as it may prevent active listening.
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