The Practical Nurse (PN) uses the “risk for” nursing diagnoses as identified from the: Select all that apply

Choice A reason: "There is no reason to worry. This surgeon has an excellent reputation.” is not the best nursing response. This response shows false reassurance, which is a communication technique that involves minimizing or dismissing the other person’s feelings or situation. It also shows authority, which is a communication barrier that involves using one’s position or status to influence or persuade the other person. It does not address the client’s emotions or needs, and may sound patronizing or condescending. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B reason: “It sounds as though you have mixed feelings about the surgery. Can you tell me more about how you feel?” is the best nursing response. This response shows active listening, which is a communication skill that involves hearing, understanding, and responding to the client’s verbal and nonverbal messages. It also shows empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It acknowledges and validates the client’s emotions, and invites them to express their concerns or fears. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice C reason: "The benefits outweigh the risks. You can be confident that the surgery should be done.” is not the best nursing response. This response shows persuasion, which is a communication technique that involves using logic or evidence to convince or influence the other person. It also shows assumption, which is a communication barrier that involves making judgments or guesses about what the other person thinks or feels. It does not address the client’s emotions or needs, and may sound coercive or manipulative. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice D reason: "You are bound to feel much beter once it is all over with.” is not the best nursing response. This response shows cliché, which is a communication technique that involves using overused or trite expressions that lack meaning or sincerity. It also shows avoidance, which is a communication barrier that involves shifting the focus away from the other person’s feelings or situation. It does not address the client’s emotions or needs, and may sound vague or insincere. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Listening. Listening is the process of receiving information from a speaker and examining one’s responses to the message. It involves paying atention, interpreting, and evaluating what is being said. Listening is an essential skill for effective communication in nursing.

Reflection is incorrect. Reflection is the process of thinking back on one’s actions and experiences and analyzing what went well and what can be improved. Reflection helps nurses to learn from their practice and enhance their professional development.

Restating is incorrect. Restating is the process of repeating what the speaker has said in one’s own words to confirm understanding and show interest. Restating is a technique that can facilitate listening, but it is not the same as listening itself.

Clarification is incorrect. Clarification is the process of asking questions or requesting more information to clear up any confusion or ambiguity in the message. Clarification can help to avoid misunderstandings and ensure accuracy, but it is not the same as listening itself.