A nurse observes that a client is sitting alone in her room crying. As the nurse approaches, she states, "I'm feeling really down and don't want to talk to anyone right now." Which of the following responses is appropriate for the nurse?
"It might help you feel better if you talk about it."
“Why are you feeling so down?"
“I just sit here with you for a few minutes then."
"I understand. I've felt like that before, too."
The Correct Answer is C
The appropriate response for the nurse in this situation would be: "I'll just sit here with you for a few minutes then."
This response acknowledges the client's expressed desire not to talk and respects their boundaries. It shows support and presence by offering companionship without pressuring the client to discuss their feelings. The nurse's willingness to sit with the client demonstrates empathy and provides a sense of comfort and reassurance.
The other options are not as appropriate:
1. "It might help you feel better if you talk about it." This response disregards the client's stated preference not to talk and may create a sense of pressure or intrusiveness. It is important to respect the client's autonomy and readiness to share their feelings.
2. "Why are you feeling so down?" This response directly asks the client to explain their feelings, which they have already indicated they do not want to discuss. It can be seen as intrusive and may make the client feel uncomfortable or defensive.
3. "I understand. I've felt like that before, too." While empathy is important, this response brings the focus back to the nurse's own experiences, potentially diverting the attention from the client. It is important for the nurse to remain focused on the client's needs and create a supportive environment for them to express their feelings if they choose to do so.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The priority action in this situation is to set behavioral limits for the client. This is important for maintaining a safe environment for the client, other staff members, and other clients. By setting limits, the nurse establishes clear boundaries and expectations for behavior, helping to prevent the escalation of aggression or violence.
Let's examine why the other choices are incorrect:
A. Exploring the truth of the client's statements: While it is important to listen to and validate the client's concerns, in this particular situation, where the client is becoming agitated and confrontational, addressing the truth of their statements is not the priority. The immediate concern is ensuring safety and de-escalating the situation.
B. Establishing a therapeutic nurse-client relationship: Developing a therapeutic relationship is crucial for providing effective care, but it may not be the immediate priority when a client is displaying aggressive or violent behavior. Safety takes precedence in such situations, and setting behavioral limits is necessary before establishing a therapeutic relationship can effectively occur.
D. Showing the client around the unit and introducing her to other clients: This action is inappropriate during an agitated and confrontational episode. It is important to first
address the client's behavior and ensure the safety of all individuals involved before engaging in social activities or introductions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The response "I will assist you in getting out of bed and getting dressed" demonstrates a supportive and therapeutic approach. It acknowledges the client's current state and offers assistance to engage in self-care activities. By providing support and actively participating in the client's care, the nurse can promote motivation, engagement, and a sense of empowerment.
The response "You can remain in bed until you feel well enough to join the milieu" may enable the client's depressive behaviors and reinforce the avoidance of activities. It does not encourage participation or provide support for the client to engage in therapeutic activities.
The response "The unit rules state that clients may not remain in bed" focuses on enforcing rules rather than addressing the client's underlying emotional state and needs. It may increase resistance and hinder the therapeutic relationship.
The response "If you don't participate in your care, you will not get better" may be perceived as blaming or judgmental. It may increase the client's guilt or sense of failure and does not provide practical support or encouragement.
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