When an office nurse asks the patient to repeat information that he has just given to the patient over the telephone, the nurse is:

A. Asking probing questions. Probing questions can feel invasive, leading to discomfort or defensiveness from the patient.

B. Using nonjudgmental remarks. Nonjudgmental remarks foster open communication, so this is not a communication block.

C. Changing the subject. Changing the subject shows disregard for the patient’s thoughts or feelings, which can block effective communication.

D. Using clichés. Clichés can make patients feel as though their concerns are not truly heard or understood.

E. Giving advice. Giving advice without patient input can make the patient feel undervalued and less autonomous.

F. Offering hope. Offering realistic hope and encouragement can actually facilitate communication, as long as it’s not false reassurance.

A. Speaking slowly and clearly in the patient's native language. While speaking clearly in the patient’s native language is helpful, it does not verify understanding. Feedback from the patient is necessary to confirm comprehension.

B. Asking the family members whether the patient understands. Relying on family members may not be accurate, as they may not fully understand the patient's level of comprehension.

C. Obtaining feedback from the patient that indicates accurate comprehension. Having the patient repeat the information back or summarize it in their own words ensures they have understood the communication.

D. Checking for signs of hearing loss or aphasia before communicating. Assessing for hearing loss or aphasia can be part of the process but does not confirm that communication was understood.