A nurse observes a client's spouse sitting alone in the waiting room crying. When approached, the spouse says, "I am really concerned about my husband. Which of the following is a therapeutic nursing response?
Tell me what is concerning you."
"Your husband is making really good progress."
"Did your husband say something to upset you?"
"Crying helps us let things out and we feel better."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "Tell me what is concerning you."
This response is the most therapeutic option. It invites the spouse to share their concerns and feelings, showing empathy and active listening. It opens the door for effective communication and understanding the spouse's perspective.
B. "Your husband is making really good progress."
While this response provides information about the husband's progress, it doesn't directly address the spouse's concerns or feelings. The spouse's emotional state needs to be acknowledged and explored before discussing the husband's progress.
C. "Did your husband say something to upset you?"
This response makes an assumption that the husband said something to upset the spouse. It might come across as accusatory or dismissive of the spouse's feelings. It's important to give the spouse the opportunity to express their emotions in their own words.
D. "Crying helps us let things out and we feel better."
This response offers a general statement about crying, but it doesn't directly address the spouse's concerns or invite further conversation. While it's true that crying can be cathartic, the focus here should be on understanding the spouse's specific worries.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Discuss the problem in a community meeting with the other clients on the unit present.
While open communication and community meetings can be valuable in certain situations, discussing a client's disruptive behavior in front of others may breach their privacy and dignity. It's important to address such matters privately and respectfully.
B. Escort the client to her room each time the nurse observes the client socializing with other clients.
This action might be seen as overly punitive and restrictive. Isolating the client based on their behavior without addressing the underlying issues doesn't promote a therapeutic approach to the situation.
C. Talk to the client and identify the specific limits that are required of the client's behavior.
This is the correct option. Talking to the client directly allows the nurse to address the behavior, express expectations, and set clear boundaries. This approach promotes open communication and gives the client a chance to understand how their actions are affecting others.
D. Tell the other clients to ignore the client's lies.
While it's important to encourage other clients to manage their reactions to disruptive behavior, simply telling them to ignore lies might not address the root cause of the issue. The nurse should aim to address the behavior itself and create an environment where all clients feel respected and safe.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "How long has this been going on?":
While this question is important for gathering more information, it may come across as more investigative or less empathetic at this initial stage of the conversation.
B. "Why do you think you are so anxious?":
While it's important to understand the client's perspective, this response might come across as confrontational or judgmental. It's better to create an open and non-judgmental environment for the client to share their feelings.
C. "Have you talked to your parents about this yet?":
This response assumes that the client has parents to talk to and may not be relevant for all clients. It's also important to establish trust and rapport with the client before asking about their support network.
D. "It sounds like you're having a difficult time.":
This response is empathetic and validating. It acknowledges the client's feelings without making assumptions or demands, creating a supportive environment for further discussion.

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