The nurse is working with a client at the battered women's shelter who is in a violent and abusive relationship. The client is considering a separation and asks the nurse. "What do you think about that?" Which is the best response by the nurse?
"You may be in more physical danger after you leave them."
"Batterers never change, so it would be best for you to leave."
"If you leave, maybe your partner will see that they have to change their behavior."
"If you don't leave. your partner will think you're going to continue to endure the abuse."
The Correct Answer is A
This is the best response because it acknowledges the client’s statement while providing realistic, evidence-based information. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and domestic violence research, the period immediately after leaving an abusive partner is often the most dangerous, as abusers may escalate threats or violence when they feel a loss of control. This response validates the client’s concerns, offers safety awareness, and opens the door for further discussion about creating a safety plan.
option B generalizes that all batterers never change, which may not be true for all situations and individuals.
Option C suggests that leaving will make the partner change is inappropriate and unsafe. This could give the client false hope that the abuser’s behavior will improve, when evidence shows that abusive partners rarely change without intensive intervention.
Option D may imply a threat or ultimatum, which is not appropriate and can be disempowering for the client. The most important aspect of supporting someone in an abusive relationship is to provide a non-judgmental, understanding, and empowering environment where they can explore their options and make decisions that are best for their safety and well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
When a school nurse suspects that a child is being sexually abused, the priority action is to ensure the child's safety and well-being. Option D, accurately and thoroughly documenting the findings and reporting to the appropriate authorities, is the most critical step in protecting the child.
Child abuse, including sexual abuse, is a serious concern that requires immediate attention and intervention. In many jurisdictions, healthcare professionals, including school nurses, are mandated reporters, which means they are legally obligated to report suspected cases of child abuse to child protective services or other appropriate authorities.
Options A, B, and C are not appropriate as the child's safety is the top priority:
A. Discussing the findings with the parents and giving them the opportunity to explain could potentially place the child at further risk if the parents are involved in the abuse or are unwilling to address the situation.
B. Talking to the child and finding out if they are experiencing sexual abuse or inappropriate touching should not be the first step without involving child protective services or other appropriate authorities. The child may be frightened or reluctant to disclose abuse directly to the nurse, especially if the abuser is a family member or someone known to the child.
C. Talking with another co-worker to confirm the assessment may delay the necessary action and reporting to protect the child.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
When a nurse observes another nurse acting flirtatiously and bringing small gifts to a client in the behavioral health unit, it raises concerns about professional boundaries and the potential for unethical behavior. The priority action for the observing nurse is to protect the rights and well-being of the client.
Option A, reporting the behavior to the supervisor, is the appropriate course of action. Reporting the observed behavior to the supervisor ensures that the situation is investigated and addressed by the appropriate authorities within the healthcare facility. This action helps maintain the integrity of the therapeutic relationship between the client and healthcare team and protects the client from any potential exploitation or manipulation.
Options B, C and D are not appropriate actions:
B. Ignoring the behavior is not appropriate as it does not address the concerns about professional boundaries and the potential for unethical behavior. Ignoring such behavior may allow it to continue, potentially putting the client at risk.
C. Confronting the nurse directly without first reporting the behavior to the supervisor may not be the most appropriate course of action. It is essential to involve the appropriate authorities within the healthcare facility to conduct a proper investigation and address the situation professionally.
D. Discussing the situation with the client and making assumptions about emotional manipulation may not be appropriate or accurate. It is not the observing nurse's role to discuss such matters with the client. Instead, the appropriate course of action is to report the observed behavior to the supervisor or appropriate authority within the healthcare facility.
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