A nurse is caring for a client who lost all his possessions in a house fire and states, "I have no idea what I am going to do. I cannot think right now." Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Identify other housing options and sources of transportation.
Notify the facility chaplain to request scheduling an appointment.
Confirm that everything will be all right because belongings can be replaced.
Maintain eye contact with the client and summarize the client's feelings.
The Correct Answer is D
Answer is d. Maintain eye contact with the client and summarize the client’s feelings.
a. Identify other housing options and sources of transportation: While it is essential to address practical needs such as housing and transportation for clients who have experienced a crisis like a house fire, it is not the immediate priority when the client is in acute emotional distress. In this scenario, the client is expressing emotional distress and may not be ready to focus on practical solutions. Therefore, addressing the client's emotional needs should take precedence over addressing practical concerns.
b. Notify the facility chaplain to request scheduling an appointment: While spiritual support can be beneficial for individuals coping with trauma or loss, it should not be the immediate response when a client is in acute emotional distress. While the chaplain's support may be sought later as part of the client's holistic care, it should not precede addressing the client's immediate emotional needs.
c. Confirm that everything will be all right because belongings can be replaced: This option is incorrect because it offers false reassurance and dismisses the client's feelings about their loss. While it is true that belongings can be replaced, the emotional impact of losing possessions, especially in a traumatic event like a house fire, should not be trivialized. The client's feelings of distress and uncertainty are valid and should be acknowledged and addressed by the nurse.
d. Maintain eye contact with the client and summarize the client’s feelings: Correct. This action demonstrates therapeutic communication, which is crucial in providing an atmosphere of support and safety for the client. Maintaining eye contact shows empathy, support, and advocacy, indicating to the client that their feelings are being heard and validated. Summarizing the client's feelings allows the nurse to demonstrate active listening and understanding, fostering trust and rapport between the nurse and client. By prioritizing the client's emotional needs, the nurse can help the client begin to process their feelings and move towards coping and problem-solving.
In summary, the correct answer is d because maintaining eye contact with the client and summarizing their feelings demonstrates therapeutic communication, which is essential in providing support and validation for the client's emotional distress. This approach allows the nurse to establish rapport and trust with the client, facilitating further therapeutic interventions and support.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace.
Choice A rationale:
Instructing the client to sit down and stop pacing (Choice A) might come across as authoritarian and dismissive of the client's anxiety. It's important to provide a more supportive and empathetic approach.
Choice B rationale:
Having a staff member escort the client to her room (Choice B) might further escalate the client's anxiety. The client may interpret this action as a form of containment or punishment.
Choice C rationale:
Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace (Choice C) is the most appropriate action. This approach acknowledges the client's anxiety and provides a calming presence. Gradually slowing down can help the client naturally transition from pacing to a calmer state.
Choice D rationale:
Allowing the client to pace alone until physically tired (Choice D) might prolong the episode of anxiety. Providing support and engagement is essential in managing the client's distress effectively.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D: "If suspicion of abuse exists, then reporting is mandatory."
Choice A rationale:
If the potential abuser commits to stopping the abuse, healthcare workers are not required to report it. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Healthcare workers are mandated reporters, and their primary responsibility is to protect the safety and well-being of the child. Regardless of whether the potential abuser commits to stopping the abuse, suspicion of abuse requires reporting.
Choice B rationale:
Evidence must exist before reporting. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. While concrete evidence can strengthen a case, it is not a prerequisite for reporting suspected child abuse. Reporting is based on reasonable suspicion, not proof. Healthcare workers should err on the side of caution and report any concerns.
Choice C rationale:
I don't want to defame someone if the report is false. Rationale: This statement is incorrect. Reporting suspected child abuse is not about defaming someone, but rather about ensuring the safety of the child. Reporting is a part of the legal and ethical obligations of healthcare workers to protect vulnerable individuals.
Choice D rationale:
If suspicion of abuse exists, then reporting is mandatory. Rationale: This statement is correct. Healthcare workers are mandated reporters and have a duty to report suspected child abuse to appropriate authorities. Reporting is necessary when there is reasonable suspicion, even if definitive evidence is not yet present.
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