The nurse caring for a patient who is concerned about her 10-pound weight loss relative to her chemotherapy tells the patient. "Lucky you! Every cloud has a silver lining." The nurse's statement is an example of which type of communication block?
Defensive response
Asking probing questions
Using clichés
Changing the subject
The Correct Answer is C
A. Defensive response
A defensive response would involve protecting oneself or one's position rather than addressing the patient’s concerns. The nurse’s statement here is more dismissive than defensive.
B. Asking probing questions
Probing questions would involve persistent questioning, which does not apply here, as the nurse is not asking questions but making a dismissive comment.
C. Using clichés
"Every cloud has a silver lining" is a cliché, which may come across as dismissive and minimize the patient’s concerns. Using clichés can make the patient feel unheard and invalidated.
D. Changing the subject
Changing the subject would involve diverting attention to an unrelated topic. The nurse here is not introducing a new topic but is using a cliché instead.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Silence. Silence can be challenging for nursing students as it requires them to resist the urge to fill quiet moments, allowing the patient time to think or express emotions.
B. Closed questions. Closed questions are relatively straightforward and easy to use, often requiring only simple responses.
C. Using general leads. General leads encourage patients to continue sharing and are easier for most students than silence.
D. Restating. Restating is often easier for students, as it involves repeating back what the patient has said for clarity.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "What bothers you most about the idea of giving yourself an injection?" This open-ended question allows the patient to express specific fears or concerns, facilitating a deeper conversation to address the patient’s worries.
B. "Everyone feels like that at first. You'll get over it." This response is dismissive and may invalidate the patient’s feelings by suggesting that their concern is typical rather than unique.
C. “I know just how you feel. I would have trouble giving myself an injection." While empathetic, this response shifts focus to the nurse’s feelings rather than exploring the patient’s specific concerns.
D. "Don't be afraid. It's an easy skill for anyone to learn." This response minimizes the patient’s fear and could make them feel dismissed rather than supported.