1.
A client diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder is admitted to an inpatient psychiatric unit for evaluation and medication stabilization. Which therapeutic communication technique used by the nurse is an example of a broad opening?
Correct Answer
B. “What would you like to talk about?”
Explanation
The nurse’s statement. “What would you like to talk about?” is an example of the therapeutic communication technique of giving broad openings. Using a broad opening allows the client to take the initiative in introducing the topic and emphasizes the importance of the client’s role in the interaction.
2.
A nurse is assessing a client diagnosed with schizophrenia for the presence of hallucinations. Which therapeutic communication technique used by the nurse is an example of making observations?
Correct Answer
A. “You appear to be talking to someone I do not see.”
Explanation
The nurse is making an observation when stating. “You appear to be talking to someone I do not see.” Making observations involve verbalizing what is observed or perceived. This encourages the client to recognize specific behaviors and make comparisons with the nurse’s perceptions.
3.
A nurse maintains an uncrossed arm and leg posture. This nonverbal behavior is reflective of which letter of the SOLER acronym for active listening?
Correct Answer
B. O
Explanation
The nurse should identify that maintaining an uncrossed arm and leg posture is nonverbal behavior that reflects the “O” in the active-listening acronym SOLER. Open posture when interacting with the client (O).The acronym SOLER includes:Option A: Sitting squarely facing the client (S).Option C: Leaning forward toward the client (L).Option D: Establishing eye contact (E).Option E: Relaxing (R).
4.
An instructor is correcting a nursing student’s clinical worksheet. Which instructor statement is the best example of effective feedback?
Correct Answer
C. “Surely you didn’t do this deliberately. but you breached confidentiality by using the client’s name.”
Explanation
The instructor’s statement. “Surely you didn’t do this deliberately. but you breached confidentiality by using the client’s name.” is an example of effective feedback. Feedback is a method of communication to help others consider a modification of behavior. Feedback should be descriptive. specific. and directed toward a behavior that the person has the capacity to modify and should impart information rather than offer advice or criticize the individual.
5.
After assertiveness training. a formerly passive client appropriately confronts a peer in group therapy. The group leader states. “I’m so proud of you for being assertive. You are so good!” Which communication technique has the leader employed?
Correct Answer
A. The nontherapeutic technique of giving approval
Explanation
The group leader has employed the nontherapeutic technique of giving approval. Giving approval implies that the nurse has the right to pass judgment on whether the client’s ideas or behaviors are “good” or “bad.” This creates a conditional acceptance of the client.
6.
What is the purpose of a nurse providing appropriate feedback?
Correct Answer
D. To give the client critical information
Explanation
The purpose of providing appropriate feedback is to give the client critical information. Feedback should not be used to give advice or evaluate behaviors.
7.
A client who frequently exhibits angry outbursts is diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder. Which appropriate feedback should a nurse provide when this client experiences an angry outburst?
Correct Answer
D. “During group. you raised your voice. yelled at a peer. left. and slammed the door.”
Explanation
The nurse is providing appropriate feedback when stating. “During group. you raised your voice. yelled at a peer. left. and slammed the door.” Giving appropriate feedback involves helping the client consider a modification of behavior. Feedback should give information to the client about how he or she is perceived by others. Feedback should not be evaluative in nature or be used to give advice.
8.
When reviewing the admission assessment. the nurse notes that a patient was admitted to the mental health unit involuntarily. Based on this type of admission. the nurse should provide which intervention for this patient?
Correct Answer
A. Monitor closely for harm to self or others.
Explanation
In cases where a patient is admitted involuntarily to the mental health unit, the nurse's priority intervention is to closely monitor for any signs of harm to self or others. This type of admission suggests that the patient may be at an increased risk of self-harm or posing a threat to others. Therefore, vigilant observation and proactive measures are necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient and those around them. This involves continuous assessment and prompt intervention if any concerning behaviors or situations arise.
9.
When interviewing a client. which nonverbal behavior should a nurse employ?
Correct Answer
C. Sitting squarely. facing the client
Explanation
When interviewing a client. the nurse should employ the nonverbal behavior of sitting squarely. facing the client. Facilitative skills for active listening can be identified by the acronym SOLER. SOLER includes sitting squarely facing the client (S). open posture when interacting with a client (O). leaning forward toward the client (L). establishing eye contact (E). and relaxing (R).
10.
A mother rescues two of her four children from a house fire. In the emergency department. she cries. “I should have gone back in to get them. I should have died. not them.” What is the nurse’s best response?
Correct Answer
B. “You’re feeling guilty because you weren’t able to save your children.”
Explanation
The best response by the nurse is. “You’re experiencing feelings of guilt because you weren’t able to save your children.” This response utilizes the therapeutic communication technique of reflection which identifies a client’s emotional response and reflects these feelings back to the client so that they may be recognized and accepted.