What step should a nurse take when noticing implicit bias in their own behavior towards a patient with a mental health diagnosis?
Discuss the bias openly in front of the patient to seek immediate feedback.
Defend their actions by stating they were following protocols.
Avoid any interaction with the patient to prevent further bias.
Reflect on their behavior and identify possible biases to address.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Discussing bias openly in front of the patient is inappropriate because it places the emotional burden on the patient and may damage trust. Patients may feel stigmatized or unsafe if the nurse verbalizes bias in the moment without first processing it privately. Professional practice requires self-reflection before engaging the patient in sensitive discussions.
Choice B reason: Defending actions by citing protocols is a deflection strategy that prevents growth. Protocols do not eliminate bias; they only provide standardized procedures. A nurse who defends bias instead of acknowledging it risks perpetuating discriminatory behavior and undermining therapeutic relationships.
Choice C reason: Avoiding interaction with the patient is harmful because it denies the patient necessary care and reinforces stigma. Withdrawal is not a solution to bias; instead, it worsens inequities and violates the nurse’s ethical duty to provide equitable care.
Choice D reason: Reflecting on behavior and identifying possible biases is the correct step. Self-reflection allows the nurse to recognize unconscious attitudes, evaluate their impact on patient care, and implement corrective strategies. This promotes professional growth, enhances cultural competence, and ensures patients receive respectful, unbiased care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Assessing speech and behavior is only one component of a mental status examination. While important, it does not capture the full scope of cognitive functioning, mood, thought processes, and orientation. Limiting the exam to speech and behavior misses critical diagnostic information.
Choice B reason: Evaluating cognitive functions and overall mental health is the primary purpose of a mental status examination. This includes assessing orientation, memory, attention, thought content, perception, mood, and judgment. It provides a comprehensive picture of the client’s psychological state, guiding diagnosis and treatment planning.
Choice C reason: Determining the need for hospitalization may be an outcome of the assessment but is not its primary purpose. Hospitalization decisions depend on severity, risk of harm, and functional impairment, which are informed by but not limited to the mental status exam.
Choice D reason: Identifying financial issues is not part of a mental status examination. While socioeconomic factors influence health, they are assessed through social history rather than cognitive and psychological evaluation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Deep breathing is a healthy coping strategy that reduces sympathetic nervous system activation, lowers tension, and promotes relaxation. No intervention is needed.
Choice B reason: Avoidance is maladaptive because it prevents the client from addressing stressors directly. It may provide temporary relief but leads to worsening anxiety and impaired functioning. This observation requires intervention to redirect the client toward healthier coping strategies.
Choice C reason: Progressive muscle relaxation is an evidence-based technique that reduces stress and promotes relaxation. It is adaptive and effective, requiring no intervention.
Choice D reason: Physical exercise is a positive coping mechanism that reduces stress hormones, improves mood, and enhances resilience. It is beneficial and does not warrant intervention.
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