Which of the following types of posture is best for the nurse to use when communicating with the patient? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason: Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a framework for prioritizing human needs, but it is not an organized approach for performing a physical examination. A physical examination should be systematic and comprehensive, not based on subjective preferences or assumptions. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B reason: A head-to-toe assessment is an organized approach for performing a physical examination that covers all the major body systems and regions. It allows the nurse to identify any abnormalities or changes in the client’s health status and to document the findings in a consistent manner. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice C reason: Subjective data collection is the process of obtaining information from the client about their symptoms, feelings, beliefs, and preferences. It is an important part of the nursing assessment, but it is not an organized approach for performing a physical examination. A physical examination requires objective data collection, which involves observing, measuring, and testing the client’s physical signs. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice D reason: Review of systems is an organized approach for performing a physical examination that focuses on each body system separately and asks specific questions related to its function and problems. It helps the nurse to elicit relevant information from the client and to detect any abnormalities or deviations from normal. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice A reason: Be silent as a sign of compassion is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take when a client bursts into tears. Silence can be misinterpreted as indifference, disapproval, or rejection, and it can make the client feel more isolated or uncomfortable. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice B reason: Continue with the physical preparation of the client is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take when a client bursts into tears. Continuing with the task without acknowledging the client’s emotional state can be perceived as insensitive, uncaring, or disrespectful, and it can increase the client’s anxiety or distress. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.

Choice C reason: Ask the client to share what she is feeling is an appropriate action for the nurse to take when a client bursts into tears. Asking open-ended questions can encourage the client to express her emotions, concerns, or fears, and it can show that the nurse is interested, supportive, and empathetic. It can also help the nurse to identify the source of the client’s distress and provide appropriate interventions or referrals. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice D reason: Pull the curtain and leave the area to provide privacy is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take when a client bursts into tears. Leaving the client alone can make her feel abandoned, ignored, or unimportant, and it can prevent the nurse from providing emotional support or assistance. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.