A nurse is caring for a client who is worried about developing a mental health disorder due to their childhood experiences.
Which of the following family characteristics is a protective factor against adverse childhood experiences?

Choice A rationale
Maintaining an upright posture during a client interview is generally seen as a sign of attentiveness and professionalism. It shows that the nurse is focused on the conversation and respects the client’s concerns.
Choice B rationale
Sitting at a slight angle across from the clients is a part of active listening and is considered a positive nonverbal communication technique. It allows the nurse to maintain eye contact and observe the client’s nonverbal cues.

Choice C rationale
Maintaining eye contact throughout the interview is a positive nonverbal communication technique that shows the nurse is paying attention and is interested in what the client is saying. However, it’s important to note that in some cultures, direct eye contact may be considered disrespectful or intrusive.
Choice D rationale
Leaning away from the client throughout the interview can be perceived as a sign of disinterest or discomfort. It may give the impression that the nurse is not engaged in the conversation or is maintaining a distance from the client. This can hinder the development of a therapeutic nurse-client relationship.

Choice A rationale
A child expressing that their parent is mean because they can’t have a dog does not constitute an adverse childhood experience (ACE). This is a common situation where a child might be upset due to not getting what they want, but it does not indicate any form of abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction that are typically associated with ACEs.
Choice B rationale
Failing an algebra test is a part of the academic challenges that students face and does not constitute an ACE. While it can be a source of stress for the child, it is not an indicator of abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction.

Choice C rationale
Forgetting lunch at home is a common occurrence among children and does not indicate an ACE. It could be a simple oversight or a result of a chaotic morning routine. It does not suggest abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction.
Choice D rationale
Having a parent who is in prison is considered an ACE. This situation falls under the category of household dysfunction. The incarceration of a parent can lead to a loss of financial stability, emotional support, and the social stigma associated with it can lead to feelings of shame and isolation for the child.