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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Interrupt the client's statement to clarify thoughts or ideas. Interrupting can make the client feel unheard and disrupt the flow of conversation.
B. Show emotion when a client is disclosing sensitive information. While empathy is important, the nurse should remain professional and composed to provide objective support.
C. Keep direct eye contact to a minimum. Avoiding eye contact may appear disinterested or disengaged.
D. Avoid looking at other clients on the unit. Maintaining focus on the client demonstrates active listening, engagement, and respect.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Splitting : Splitting is a defense mechanism where a person sees others as all good or all bad, which is not evident in this scenario.
B. Denial: Denial is refusing to accept reality as a way to cope with distress. The client rejects the prognosis and insists on recovery despite medical evidence.
C. Displacement : Displacement is shifting emotions onto a less threatening target (e.g., being angry at a nurse instead of at the bad news).
D. Repression : Repression is unconsciously blocking out distressing thoughts rather than actively rejecting the reality of a loved one’s condition.
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