A Practical Nurse (PN) is planning on leaving the room of a patient with a tracheotomy. The PN ensures that the client has which of the following means of communication before leaving the room?

Choice A reason: “I am sure they are all beef hot dogs. Would you like me to get a substitution from the kitchen?” is not the best response by the PN. This response shows false reassurance, which is a communication technique that involves minimizing or dismissing the other person’s feelings or situation. It also shows assumption, which is a communication barrier that involves making judgments or guesses about what the other person thinks or feels. It does not respect the client’s dietary preferences, and may sound patronizing or condescending. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B reason: “I don’t understand why that should make a difference.” is not the best response by the PN. This response shows lack of knowledge, which is a communication barrier that involves being unaware or ignorant of the other person’s culture, beliefs, or values. It also shows indifference, which is a communication barrier that involves showing no interest or concern for the other person’s feelings or situation. It does not respect the client’s dietary preferences, and may sound rude or offensive. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice C reason: “So you don’t want anything to eat, then?” is not the best response by the PN. This response shows closed-ended questioning, which is a communication technique that involves asking questions that require a yes or no answer or a specific piece of information. It also shows sarcasm, which is a communication barrier that involves using irony or mockery to hurt or ridicule the other person. It does not respect the client’s dietary preferences, and may sound hostile or aggressive. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice D reason: “I respect your dietary preferences. Let me see what else I can offer you.” is the best response by the PN. This response shows respect, which is a value or attitude that involves showing consideration, appreciation, and recognition for the other person as a unique and holistic person. It also shows support, which is a communication technique that involves providing emotional or practical assistance to the other person, and helping them cope with their situation or problem. It respects the client’s dietary preferences, and shows that the PN is caring, helpful, and empathetic. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because it shows that the PN is not using a technique that encourages the client to express feelings and thoughts. A closed inquiry is a question that can be answered with a yes or no, or a short factual response.

Choice B reason: This is correct because it shows that the PN is using a technique that encourages the client to express feelings and thoughts. An open-ended question is a question that requires more than a yes or no, or a short factual response and invites the client to elaborate.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because it shows that the PN is not using a technique that involves asking a question. Minimal encouraging is a verbal or nonverbal response that shows interest and attention and prompts the client to continue talking.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because it shows that the PN is not using a technique that involves asking a question. A restating is a verbal response that repeats the main idea or keywords of the client’s message and confirms understanding.