A nurse is caring for a client who has a depressive disorder following the recent death of their partner. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
"Everyone feels depressed during the grieving process."
"Tell me what your relationship with your partner was like."
"I remember how depressed I was after my friend died."
"You should start participating in your usual activities."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason:
"Everyone feels depressed during the grieving process."
This response, while intended to normalize the client's feelings, can come across as dismissive. It implies that the client's feelings are typical and may not validate the unique and personal nature of their grief. It is important for the nurse to acknowledge the client's specific experience and provide a space for them to express their emotions without feeling minimized.
Choice B Reason:
"Tell me what your relationship with your partner was like."
This response is the most therapeutic and supportive. It invites the client to share their feelings and memories, which can be an important part of the grieving process. By asking about the client's relationship with their partner, the nurse shows empathy and provides an opportunity for the client to process their loss. This approach aligns with patient-centered care, which focuses on understanding and addressing the individual needs and experiences of the client.
Choice C Reason:
"I remember how depressed I was after my friend died."
While this response attempts to show empathy through shared experience, it shifts the focus away from the client and onto the nurse. The client's needs should remain the primary focus of the conversation. Sharing personal experiences can sometimes be helpful, but it should be done carefully and only if it directly benefits the client's therapeutic process.
Choice D Reason:
"You should start participating in your usual activities."
Encouraging the client to resume normal activities can be part of the recovery process, but this response may be premature and insensitive if the client is not ready. It is important to first validate the client's feelings and understand their current emotional state before suggesting actions. Grieving is a highly individual process, and pushing the client to move on too quickly can be counterproductive.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I think you are experiencing guilt."
This response assumes the client's feelings without allowing them to express themselves. It may also come across as judgmental or dismissive. Effective communication with a client who has attempted suicide should be open-ended and non-judgmental, encouraging the client to share their thoughts and feelings. This approach helps build trust and rapport, which are crucial for effective therapeutic intervention.
Choice B Reason:
"You should have asked for help."
This response can be perceived as blaming the client for not seeking help earlier. It does not acknowledge the client's current emotional state or provide a supportive environment for them to express their feelings. Clients who have attempted suicide often feel a sense of shame or guilt, and this response could exacerbate those feelings, making it harder for them to open up.
Choice C Reason:
"Everyone gets discouraged sometimes."
While this statement is true, it minimizes the client's experience and does not address the severity of their feelings. It can make the client feel that their emotions are being trivialized. In situations involving suicidal ideation or attempts, it is important to validate the client's feelings and provide a safe space for them to discuss their emotions.
Choice D Reason:
"Let's talk about how you were feeling."
This response is the most appropriate as it invites the client to share their feelings and experiences. It shows empathy and a willingness to listen, which are essential components of therapeutic communication. By encouraging the client to talk about their feelings, the nurse can better understand the client's emotional state and provide appropriate support and interventions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Scheduling teaching sessions for a longer duration may not necessarily promote participation among older adults. In fact, prolonged sessions can lead to fatigue and decreased attention, especially in older populations who may have reduced stamina for long activities.
Choice B Reason:
While assisting clients with establishing long-term goals is beneficial for motivation and direction, it is not directly related to eliminating barriers to learning. Goals are more about the outcomes of learning rather than the process itself.
Choice C Reason:
Using "I" statements rather than "you" statements can help eliminate barriers to learning by creating a non-threatening environment. This approach encourages personal responsibility and reduces defensiveness, allowing for more open and effective communication.
Choice D Reason:
Ensuring that teaching sessions occur right before bedtime is not advisable. Older adults may be more tired at the end of the day, and this timing could interfere with their ability to concentrate and retain information.
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