The nurse is assessing an older adult client who is having difficulty remembering events from earlier in the day and concentrating on the questions being asked. A family member shares that the client's home was recently sold and the client has just moved in with them. Which nursing response best promotes effective communication with the family?
Delirium is often a sign of underlying mental illness, and institutionalization is often necessary.
If the dementia is a result of Alzheimer's disease, it is often reversible even in the late stages.
The client's delirium may be due to depression and is possibly reversible.
The client is exhibiting symptoms of dementia, and because of age, it may be permanent.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Suggesting that delirium is often a sign of underlying mental illness and that institutionalization is necessary can be distressing and may not be accurate without further assessment.
Choice B reason: Stating that dementia due to Alzheimer's disease is often reversible even in the late stages is incorrect; Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition with no current cure.
Choice C reason: Recognizing the possibility of delirium due to depression, which can be reversible, is a hopeful and constructive approach that encourages further evaluation and treatment options.
Choice D reason: Suggesting that symptoms of dementia are permanent because of age can be disheartening and does not consider the potential for reversible causes of cognitive impairment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This response invites the client to describe specific behaviors, promoting reality testing and reducing global judgments. It shifts the focus to observable facts, encourages problem solving, and sets a neutral, nonjudgmental tone that helps manage splitting without taking sides or reinforcing dichotomous thinking.
Choice B reason: Promising to speak to the other nurse takes the nurse’s role beyond immediate assessment and may reinforce the client’s splitting by implying advocacy against staff. It avoids eliciting specifics, delays direct exploration of the client’s perception, and can undermine professional boundaries and accountability.
Choice C reason: Offering general reassurance about discharge does not address the client’s immediate interpersonal splitting or the complaint about the night nurse. It sidesteps the behavior, misses an opportunity for clarification, and fails to help the client examine or verbalize the concrete reasons behind their polarized view.
Choice D reason: Responding with flattery while asking which nurse was aloof can validate the client’s splitting and encourage manipulation or favoritism. It risks reinforcing the “favorite” dynamic and does not promote objective description of events or help the client process feelings in a therapeutic, boundary‑maintaining way.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Engaging in non-threatening conversations can help the client feel more comfortable and may encourage communication, which is crucial for clients who are withdrawn due to depression.
Choice B reason: Family visits can be supportive, but the client's withdrawal suggests a need for more direct intervention to encourage communication.
Choice C reason: Scheduling a conference with a social worker is important, but it is not the most immediate intervention for a withdrawn client.
Choice D reason: Group activities may be overwhelming for a client who is noncommunicative and may not be the most suitable initial approach.
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