A patient cries as the nurse explores the patient's relationship with a deceased parent. The patient says, “I shouldn't be crying like this, it happened a long time ago.” Which responses by the nurse will facilitate communication? Select all that apply.
Select one or more:
“I can see that you feel sad about this situation.”
"Don't be sad, everyone has to pass for something like this in the life.”
I felt very sad when my mother died, it was horrible!
"Let's talk about something else. this subject is upsetting you, don't worry about this."
“The loss of your parent should be very painful for you."
Correct Answer : A,E
a. “I can see that you feel sad about this situation”.
e. “The loss of your parent should be very painful for you.”
These responses by the nurse show empathy and validate the patient’s feelings. They also encourage the patient to continue expressing their emotions and facilitate communication.
Option b. “Don’t be sad, everyone has to pass for something like this in the life” is not a helpful response
because it minimizes the patient’s feelings and may make them feel like their emotions are not valid.
Option c. “I felt very sad when my mother died, it was horrible!” is not a helpful response because it shifts the focus of the conversation away from the patient and onto the nurse’s personal experience.
Option d. “Let’s talk about something else. this subject is upsetting you, don’t worry about this” is not a helpful response because it dismisses the patient’s emotions and may make them feel like they are not allowed to express their feelings.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Denial is a defense mechanism where an individual refuses to accept or acknowledge the existence of a problem or a reality that causes anxiety or distress. In this scenario, the client is denying that their coughing is related to their lung cancer, and instead attributing it to a common cold that everyone is getting. This denial may be a way for the client to avoid facing the reality of their illness and the potential consequences of smoking.
Option b, reaction formation, is a defense mechanism where an individual expresses feelings or behaviors that are the opposite of their true feelings to reduce anxiety.
Option c, sublimation, is a defense mechanism where an individual channels their unacceptable impulses into more acceptable or socially appropriate behaviors.
Option d, suppression, is a defense mechanism where an individual consciously pushes down or avoids their thoughts or feelings. None of these defense mechanisms are being exhibited in the scenario described.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Therapeutic communication involves actively listening to the client, demonstrating empathy, and using open-ended questions to encourage the client to express their thoughts and feelings.
Reflecting (option a) and listening attentively (option b) are both examples of effective therapeutic communication techniques as they demonstrate active listening and empathy.
However, offering advice (option c) is a barrier to therapeutic communication because it implies that the nurse knows what is best for the client and can solve their problems for them.
This can create a power dynamic in the nurse-client relationship and may discourage the client from expressing their true thoughts and feelings. Giving information (option d) can be an important aspect of therapeutic communication, but it should be done in a way that respects the client's autonomy and involves collaboration rather than giving directives.
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