The nurse is alert to avoid using blocks to effective communication that include: (Select all that apply.)
asking probing questions.
using nonjudgmental remarks.
changing the subject.
using clichés.
giving advice.
offering hope.
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
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.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. wrings her hands and paces around the room while denying that she is upset.
This example reflects incongruence. The patient's body language (pacing, wringing hands) suggests anxiety or distress, which does not match her verbal denial of being upset.
B. states she is comfortable while she frowns, and her teeth are clenched.
This example also reflects incongruence. Her facial expression and clenched teeth contradict her statement of comfort, indicating her communication is not aligned.
C. is tearful and slow in speech when talking about her husband's death.
This example reflects congruence. The patient’s verbal expression and nonverbal cues are aligned, indicating that her communication is consistent with her emotions.
D. smiles and laughs while speaking of feeling lonely and depressed.
This example reflects incongruence. Smiling and laughing contradict the verbal expression of loneliness and depression, indicating a mismatch in her communication.
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.