The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with type 1 diabetes two months ago. The client reports being admitted to the hospital several times due to hypoglycemia. When educating the client about their disease process before discharge, which information should the nurse prioritize?

A. Asking closed-ended questions to direct the conversation: Closed-ended questions limit responses and can restrict the flow of information. Active listening involves open-ended questions that encourage the client to share more detailed thoughts and feelings.

B. Focus on typing notes while the client is speaking: Diverting attention to note-taking can signal disinterest and reduce the nurse’s ability to interpret verbal and nonverbal cues. Active listening requires full attention to the client.

C. Provide advice before the client has finished speaking: Interrupting with advice prevents the nurse from fully understanding the client’s perspective. Active listening involves allowing the client to express themselves completely before responding or offering guidance.

D. Maintain eye contact and nod to indicate understanding: Nonverbal cues such as eye contact, nodding, and facial expressions demonstrate attentiveness and understanding. These behaviors encourage the client to communicate openly and confirm that the nurse is actively listening.

A. A follow-up assessment: This type of assessment is used to evaluate a client’s progress after initial treatment or previous visits. It focuses on monitoring chronic conditions, adherence to treatment plans, and identifying changes that may require intervention, making it appropriate for this routine home visit.

B. A complete assessment: A complete assessment is comprehensive and includes detailed health history and physical examination. It is typically performed at the first encounter rather than during routine follow-up visits.

C. An episodic assessment: Episodic assessments address specific problems or concerns that arise between regular visits. Since this visit is routine and not prompted by a new problem, an episodic assessment is less appropriate.

D. An emergency assessment: Emergency assessments are performed when a client presents with acute, life-threatening conditions requiring immediate attention. This type of assessment is not applicable for a routine home visit for chronic disease monitoring.