A nurse observes a client's spouse sitting alone in the waiting room crying. When approached, the spouse says, "I am really concerned about my husband." Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?
"Tell me what is concerning you.”
"Crying helps us let things out and we feel better.”
"Your husband is making really good progress.”
"Did your husband say something to upset you?”
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The correct choice. In this situation, the nurse's priority is to gather information and provide emotional support. By asking the spouse to share their concerns, the nurse opens up a channel of communication and shows empathy, creating an opportunity to address the spouse's worries and provide reassurance.
Choice B rationale:
While the sentiment that crying can be cathartic and relieving is true, this response does not directly address the spouse's concern or encourage them to share their feelings. It's important to focus on the spouse's feelings rather than just explaining the benefits of crying.
Choice C rationale:
Assuming that the husband is making progress without knowing the specifics of the situation can come across as dismissive of the spouse's concerns. It's important to validate the spouse's emotions and provide support, rather than making assumptions about the husband's progress.
Choice D rationale:
Asking whether the husband said something to upset the spouse might be relevant, but it does not address the spouse's expressed concern about their husband. This response may not foster open communication and emotional support as effectively as choice A.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. A room containing personal belongings.
Choice A rationale:
A room without a window would likely be isolating and could contribute to feelings of confusion and disorientation in a cognitively impaired individual. Natural light from windows helps regulate the circadian rhythm and provides a sense of time, which is crucial for maintaining a therapeutic environment.
Choice B rationale:
A room containing personal belongings is the correct choice. Familiar items from home can provide comfort and a sense of familiarity, reducing anxiety and agitation in cognitively impaired individuals. These belongings can act as cues for memory recall and assist in maintaining a connection to their personal identity.
Choice C rationale:
A room adjacent to the nursing station might lead to increased noise and disruption for the client. Cognitively impaired individuals often benefit from a quiet and calm environment, which would not be ensured in a room close to a potentially busy nursing station.
Choice D rationale:
A room with dim lighting can exacerbate confusion and disorientation in cognitively impaired individuals. Adequate lighting is essential for maintaining a safe and structured environment, as poor lighting can lead to falls and increased disorientation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.
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