The nurse is assessing a patient with chest pain who has just come to the hospital. Which open-ended question will provide the nurse with helpful information about the patient’s health status?

Choice A reason: This is the correct choice because providing a warm cup of hot chocolate may make it more difficult for the patient to fall asleep. Hot chocolate contains caffeine and sugar, which are stimulants that can interfere with the sleep cycle and cause insomnia. The nurse should avoid giving the patient any beverages or foods that contain caffeine or sugar before bedtime.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect choice because giving the patient a gentle backrub may make it easier for the patient to fall asleep. A backrub is a relaxation technique that can reduce muscle tension, pain, and anxiety, and promote comfort and sleep. The nurse should offer the patient a backrub or other soothing interventions before bedtime.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect choice because encouraging the patient to use the bathroom may make it easier for the patient to fall asleep. Using the bathroom before bed can prevent nocturia, which is the need to urinate at night, and allow the patient to have uninterrupted sleep. The nurse should assist the patient to use the bathroom or provide a urinal or bedpan if needed.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect choice because giving the patient an extra blanket when cold may make it easier for the patient to fall asleep. Maintaining a comfortable temperature is important for sleep quality and quantity. The nurse should adjust the room temperature and provide extra blankets or fans as requested by the patient.

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect choice because "When did you first seek health care for your symptoms?" is not an example of back-channeling. Back-channeling is a communication technique that involves using verbal or non-verbal cues to indicate that the listener is paying attention and encouraging the speaker to continue. This statement is an example of an open-ended question, which is another communication technique that involves asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer and elicit more information from the speaker.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect choice because "I am sure the doctor will answer all of your questions shortly." is not an example of back-channeling. Back-channeling is a communication technique that involves using verbal or non-verbal cues to indicate that the listener is paying attention and encouraging the speaker to continue. This statement is an example of a reassurance, which is another communication technique that involves expressing confidence or support to the speaker and alleviating their anxiety or fear.

Choice C reason: This is the correct choice because "I completely understand. Can you tell me more?" is an example of back-channeling. Back-channeling is a communication technique that involves using verbal or non-verbal cues to indicate that the listener is paying attention and encouraging the speaker to continue. This statement is an example of a verbal cue, which involves using words or phrases that show empathy, interest, or agreement, and invite the speaker to elaborate or clarify their message.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect choice because "Try not to worry. I'm sure that you will be just fine." is not an example of back-channeling. Back-channeling is a communication technique that involves using verbal or non-verbal cues to indicate that the listener is paying attention and encouraging the speaker to continue. This statement is an example of a false reassurance, which is a communication barrier that involves making unrealistic or unfounded promises or predictions to the speaker and dismissing their concerns or feelings.