A nurse is rehearsing assertive communication approaches to use when declining leadership of a nursing department committee. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

A. “I don’t mind cleaning up your mess. I am used to it because my child does this at night.”
This response is non-therapeutic because it minimizes the patient’s feelings and experiences by comparing them to the nurse’s personal life. It fails to acknowledge the patient's emotional distress and does not address the underlying issue of incontinence.

B. “I will bring you some diapers to wear instead of having you wet the bed all the time.”
This response is dismissive and fails to address the patient’s emotional needs. It focuses on a temporary solution rather than working collaboratively with the patient on a more comprehensive management plan.

C. “Don’t be embarrassed. A lot of patients have this problem after a stroke.”
This response is dismissive of the patient’s feelings of embarrassment. It fails to provide empathetic support and does not offer a solution or a plan to address the incontinence.

D. “You seem upset about this. We can work together on a bladder retraining program.”
This response is therapeutic as it acknowledges the patient’s feelings and offers a constructive approach to manage the issue. It demonstrates empathy and engages the patient in a collaborative solution, which is essential for effective patient care.

A. Assertive communicators express themselves openly and directly rather than communicating resentment in secretive ways.

B. Passive communicators do not communicate their needs clearly or honestly.

C. Passive communicators do not typically become hostile; they may avoid confrontation.

D. Assertive communicators express their thoughts, feelings, and needs confidently and respectfully.