A nurse is interacting with a client who is expressing her feelings about her child’s insensitive behavior. Which statement made by the nurse indicates the nurse is empathizing with the client?
Choose the best answer.
Don’t worry, your child will be alright.
I don’t know how you’ve managed to cope; this is awful.
It sounds like this is very difficult for you. I can see why it causes you stress.
This is unbelievable, how could you tolerate this behavior.
The Correct Answer is C
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It involves acknowledging and validating the other person's emotions and experiences. In this scenario, the nurse should demonstrate empathy towards the client who is expressing her feelings about her child's insensitive behavior.
Option a is dismissive and minimizes the client's concerns. It does not show empathy or understanding of the client's situation.
Option b might sound sympathetic, but it could also come across as pitying, which may not be helpful or supportive for the client. It also does not reflect an understanding of the client's feelings.
Option d is judgmental and critical, and it could make the client feel defensive and unsupported.
Option c is the best response as it shows empathy and validates the client's emotions. It acknowledges the client's difficulty and demonstrates the nurse's understanding and support for the client's situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This open-ended question allows the patient to share their thoughts and feelings about their relationship and provides the nurse with valuable information about the patient’s situation. By asking this question, the nurse is showing that they are actively listening to the patient and are interested in understanding their perspective.
The other questions (b, c, d) are more closed-ended and may not provide as much information about the patient’s situation. It is important for the nurse to ask open-ended questions and to actively listen to the patient’s responses to gain a better understanding of their needs and concerns.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This statement shows that the nurse is interested in Linda's feelings and is willing to listen to her. It allows Linda to express her emotions and concerns, which can help to reduce her anxiety.
Option A ("How about watching a football game?") may not be appropriate as Linda may not be interested in football or may not find it helpful in reducing her anxiety.
Option B ("What do you have to be upset about now?") is not a therapeutic statement as it can be perceived as dismissive and invalidating of Linda's feelings.
Option D ("Ignore the client.") is never an appropriate approach for a nurse or any healthcare professional as it goes against the principles of providing care and support to patients.

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