A client has made the decision to leave her alcoholic husband and reports feeling very depressed. Which of the following is a non-therapeutic statement by the nurse that demonstrates sympathy?
"You are feeling very depressed. I felt the same way when I decided to leave my husband.”
"I can understand you are feeling depressed. It was a difficult decision. I'll sit with you.”
"You seem depressed. It was a difficult decision to make. Would you like to talk about it?”
"I know this is a difficult time for you. Would you like medication for anxiety?”
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The statement "You are feeling very depressed. I felt the same way when I decided to leave my husband." is a non-therapeutic statement that demonstrates sympathy. The nurse is sharing personal experiences, which can shift the focus from the client's feelings to the nurse's own experiences.
Choice B rationale:
The statement "I can understand you are feeling depressed. It was a difficult decision. I'll sit with you." is a therapeutic response that offers support and empathy without diverting the focus to the nurse's experiences. The nurse's willingness to sit with the client is a positive aspect of this response.
Choice C rationale:
The statement "You seem depressed. It was a difficult decision to make. Would you like to talk about it?" is a therapeutic response that acknowledges the client's feelings, offers support, and invites further conversation. This response encourages the client to express themselves.
Choice D rationale:
The statement "I know this is a difficult time for you. Would you like medication for anxiety?" acknowledges the client's difficulties but immediately offers medication as a solution. While medication can be a valid option, it's important to prioritize open communication and emotional support before suggesting medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C.
Choice A rationale:
Planning a therapeutic diet is important for overall client care, but it might not be the first priority. The client's significant weight loss and distorted body image require more immediate attention to address potential underlying mental health concerns..
Choice B rationale:
Providing a structured environment is beneficial, but it might not be the first priority in this situation. The client's distorted perception of weight and significant weight loss necessitate more immediate assessment and intervention.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing the client's nutritional status is the first priority in this scenario. The client's weight loss of 11 kg (25 lb) over 3 months and belief that she is fat are indicators of a possible eating disorder. Nutritional assessment helps determine the severity of the issue and guides appropriate interventions.
Choice D rationale:
While requesting a mental health consult is important, it is not the first priority. Addressing the client's immediate physical health, which includes assessing her nutritional status and potential risk for complications related to her distorted body image, takes precedence.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Instructing the client to tell the voices to leave them alone oversimplifies the situation. It disregards the distress and lack of control that individuals with schizophrenia often experience when hearing voices. This response may also imply that the client has complete control over the voices, which is not accurate.
Choice B rationale:
Denying the existence of the voices contradicts the client's experience and could lead to further distrust between the client and nurse. Acknowledging the client's feelings and experiences is essential for building rapport and understanding in a therapeutic relationship.
Choice C rationale:
This response is appropriate because it acknowledges the client's experience and seeks to understand the content and nature of the voices. It demonstrates empathy and encourages open communication, which is crucial in providing effective care for individuals with schizophrenia.
Choice D rationale:
Asking the client why they think they are hearing the voices might be interpreted as confrontational or judgmental. It could make the client defensive and hinder open communication. Instead, focusing on the content of the voices allows the nurse to gain insight into the client's experiences without placing blame.
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