A nurse places a computer on wheels between herself and the client while asking assessment questions. What message might the nonverbal action convey?
The nurse is prioritizing efficiency over communication
The nurse lacks compassion or empathy
The nurse is focused on the client’s needs
The nurse is demonstrating professionalism
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Placing a computer physically between the nurse and the client creates a barrier that emphasizes task completion and documentation rather than interpersonal connection. This action signals that efficiency and data entry are prioritized over therapeutic communication. In clinical practice, nonverbal cues such as positioning of objects can strongly influence the perception of empathy and attentiveness. By focusing on the computer, the nurse unintentionally conveys that communication is secondary, which can hinder rapport and trust.
Choice B reason: While the action may appear impersonal, it does not necessarily mean the nurse lacks compassion or empathy. Compassion is demonstrated through tone, eye contact, and active listening. The presence of the computer alone does not prove an absence of empathy, though it may reduce the perception of warmth.
Choice C reason: Being focused on the client’s needs would involve direct engagement, maintaining eye contact, and ensuring the client feels heard. Placing a barrier between them contradicts this principle, as it shifts attention away from the client and toward the device.
Choice D reason: Professionalism involves maintaining respect, confidentiality, and therapeutic communication. Blocking the client with a computer does not align with professionalism, as it diminishes the quality of interaction and can be perceived as dismissive.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Getting down to the child’s eye level and smiling conveys warmth, empathy, and approachability. It reduces power imbalance, helps the child feel safe, and builds trust. Nonverbal communication is especially important with children, who may be more responsive to gestures and facial expressions than to verbal reassurance. This technique directly reduces anxiety by creating a supportive environment.
Choice B reason: A closed posture signals defensiveness or authority, which can increase anxiety in a child. Children are sensitive to body language, and a closed posture may make them feel intimidated or unsafe.
Choice C reason: Speaking loudly and commandingly can heighten anxiety, especially in pediatric clients. Children often interpret loud voices as anger or threat, which undermines trust and comfort.
Choice D reason: Avoiding eye contact may be misinterpreted as disinterest or lack of connection. While respecting space is important, children often need visual reassurance. Eye contact combined with a gentle smile communicates attentiveness and care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Administering antihypertensive medication is important, but it should not be the first step without confirming the client’s current blood pressure. Giving medication without assessment could lead to inappropriate dosing or complications such as hypotension.
Choice B reason: The priority is to check the client’s blood pressure because sudden severe headache and blurred vision are hallmark signs of hypertensive crisis or possible hypertensive encephalopathy. Immediate measurement provides critical data to guide urgent interventions and prevent complications such as stroke or organ damage. This assessment establishes the severity of the situation and directs subsequent actions.
Choice C reason: Placing the client in a quiet environment may help reduce stimulation and stress, but it does not address the underlying acute physiological risk. It is supportive but not the priority intervention.
Choice D reason: Notifying the provider is necessary once the nurse has objective data to report. Without measuring blood pressure first, the nurse cannot provide accurate information to guide urgent medical decisions.
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