Which of the following should be avoided when communicating with a mentally ill patient?
Taking the time to convey respect for the patient
Having an expectation that the patient will get better
Demonstrating through your expression and posture that you are listening
Believing that the patient will not improve
The Correct Answer is D
A. Taking the time to convey respect for the patient
Respect promotes trust and therapeutic alliance.
B. Having an expectation that the patient will get better
Positive expectations support hope and motivation for recovery. They are helpful, not harmful.
C. Demonstrating through your expression and posture that you are listening
Non-verbal communication reinforces that the nurse is engaged and empathetic—a cornerstone of therapeutic communication.
D. Believing that the patient will not improve
This attitude is harmful and defeatist. It may lead to substandard care and a lack of motivation to help the patient engage in treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Suppression
Suppression is a conscious defense mechanism where an individual intentionally avoids thinking about distressing thoughts or feelings.
B. Projection
Projection involves attributing one’s own unwanted feelings or impulses to someone else (e.g., accusing someone else of being angry when you're the one feeling it).
C. Regression
Regression is reverting to an earlier developmental stage (e.g., a childlike state) to cope with stress or anxiety.
D. Rationalization
Rationalization is creating logical excuses to justify unacceptable behavior or feelings (e.g., "I failed the test because the teacher doesn’t like me").
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Leaving the hospital
Although some patients may leave against medical advice (AMA), helplessness and hopelessness are more directly associated with suicide risk, not elopement.
B. Committing suicide
Hopelessness and helplessness are strong indicators of suicidal ideation. These feelings suggest the patient may see no escape from their emotional pain.
C. A decrease in activity
While this could occur in depression, it is a less urgent concern than the immediate risk of suicide.
D. Refusing to eat
This may occur in some psychiatric conditions but is not as directly tied to feelings of hopelessness as suicidal ideation is.
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