A client who has been grieving the loss of his wife two weeks ago says to the nurse, "The best part of my day is when I am back at work. Is that wrong?" Which of the following statements by the nurse is correct regarding the purpose of work and other daily activities?
"Working is letting you take an emotional break from grieving. There's nothing wrong with that."
"Working is your way of avoiding grief, which will make it harder for you to move on."
"Working reminds you of your loss. It may be too early to go back."
"You cannot work effectively this soon. You should finish grieving first."
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This response validates the client’s coping mechanism and normalizes the use of routine and structure as a temporary emotional reprieve. Work can offer distraction, purpose, and social engagement, which are all beneficial during early grief. It respects the client’s autonomy and acknowledges that grief is not linear or uniform.
Choice B reason: This statement pathologizes the client’s behavior without sufficient evidence. While avoidance can be a maladaptive coping strategy, returning to work does not inherently indicate avoidance. It may reflect resilience or a healthy attempt to regain normalcy. Making assumptions can alienate the client and hinder therapeutic communication.
Choice C reason: Suggesting that it may be too early to return to work imposes a timeline on grief that is not evidence-based. Grieving is highly individualized, and many people find comfort in routine. This statement risks invalidating the client’s experience and may discourage adaptive coping.
Choice D reason: Telling the client they cannot work effectively and should finish grieving first is both inaccurate and dismissive. Grief does not have a defined endpoint, and many individuals function well while grieving. This statement undermines the client’s self-assessment and can be perceived as judgmental.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dissatisfaction with body image may reflect unresolved developmental issues or poor self-esteem. It is not a marker of positive psychosocial development in adulthood.
Choice B reason: Having close friendships and engaging in social activities reflects healthy interpersonal relationships and emotional maturity. This aligns with Erikson’s stage of intimacy vs. isolation, where forming meaningful connections is a key developmental task.
Choice C reason: Frequent job changes may indicate instability or lack of career direction. While exploration is normal, repeated changes without satisfaction may suggest difficulty with commitment or identity formation.
Choice D reason: Planning to move from the parental home at age 30 may indicate delayed independence. While circumstances vary, adult development typically includes establishing autonomy earlier.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Open-ended questions encourage clients to elaborate and provide more detailed responses. They are a therapeutic communication technique that facilitates information gathering, not a barrier.
Choice B reason: Rushing and pressuring the client can create anxiety, reduce trust, and make the client feel unheard or unsafe. This approach can shut down communication and lead to incomplete or inaccurate information.
Choice C reason: Taking time to answer the client’s questions builds rapport and shows respect. It encourages mutual communication and trust, which are essential for effective assessment.
Choice D reason: Being open and friendly helps establish a therapeutic relationship. It makes the client feel more comfortable and willing to share, enhancing the quality of the assessment.
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