A nurse is caring for a client who states, "I have got to get out of this hospital! They have found my address and are coming for my family!" The nurse responds, "Don't worry, no one will harm your family." Which of the following types of communication breakdown does the nurse's response represent?
Offering false reassurance.
Offering sympathy.
Providing a passive response.
Showing disapproval.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Offering false reassurance occurs when a nurse or healthcare provider dismisses a patient's concerns with general comforting statements without addressing the reality of the situation or the patient's feelings. In this case, the nurse's response of "Don't worry, no one will harm your family" is an attempt to alleviate the patient's anxiety without acknowledging the patient's fear or providing a realistic plan to ensure the safety of the patient's family. This type of communication can undermine trust and prevent the patient from feeling heard and supported.
Choice B Reason:
Offering sympathy involves sharing feelings of pity or sorrow for someone else's misfortune. While the nurse's response may seem sympathetic, it does not directly express shared emotions or an understanding of the patient's distress. Therefore, it does not represent offering sympathy as a communication breakdown in this context.
Choice C Reason:
Providing a passive response would involve the nurse not actively engaging with the patient's concerns or failing to provide any response. Since the nurse in the scenario does respond to the patient's statement, this does not constitute a passive response.
Choice D Reason:
Showing disapproval would involve the nurse expressing judgment or criticism of the patient's feelings or actions. The nurse's response does not contain elements of judgment or criticism; rather, it is an attempt to reassure the patient, albeit falsely.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Providing reading material about the surgery can be informative, but it may not be the best approach for someone who is already very nervous. It could potentially increase anxiety if the information is overwhelming or if the client misinterprets the material.
Choice B reason:
Suggesting a walk could serve as a distraction and help to calm the client's nerves. However, it might not address the underlying anxiety about the surgery itself. It's a temporary measure that doesn't offer emotional support or address the client's immediate concerns.
Choice C reason:
Referring the client to the pastoral care team could be beneficial if the client is seeking spiritual support or comfort. However, this should be based on the client's personal preferences and beliefs, and it may not be the most direct way to address the client's stated nervousness.
Choice D reason:
Engaging the client in a conversation about their feelings provides an opportunity for emotional support and can help the nurse understand the client's specific fears. This approach can lead to a more personalized care plan to alleviate anxiety.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Talking directly to the client and setting clear boundaries is a therapeutic approach. It respects the client's autonomy while also addressing the behavior that is affecting the therapeutic environment. By identifying specific limits, the nurse helps the client understand the consequences of their actions and the importance of maintaining a respectful and honest communication with others.
Choice B reason:
Discussing the problem in a community meeting could be helpful, but it should not be the initial action. This approach might inadvertently shame or embarrass the client in front of peers, which could exacerbate the situation. It's important to address the behavior privately before involving the larger group.
Choice C reason:
Escorting the client to their room each time they socialize could be seen as punitive and may not address the underlying reasons for the lying behavior. It could also isolate the client from social interactions that are an essential part of the healing process.
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