Exam 10: Communication and the Clinical Interview

Which principle should guide the nurse in determining the extent of silence to use during patient interview sessions?

Which statement by a nurse may underrate a patient's feelings and belittle the patient's concerns?

A patient tells the nurse,"I don't think I'll ever get out of here." Select the nurse's most therapeutic response.

During a therapy session,a patient cries as the nurse explores the relationship of the patient and her now-deceased mother.The patient sobs,"I shouldn't be blubbering like this." A response by the nurse that will hinder communication is:

For each statement by a nurse engaged in an interaction with a patient, mark A if the statement is therapeutic and B if it is not therapeutic -"I'd like to hear more about your difficult relationships at work."

A Puerto Rican American patient uses dramatic body language when describing recent life events.Select the most accurate explanation of the patient's behavior.

A patient says,"My marriage is great.My spouse and I usually agree on everything." The nurse observes the patient's foot moving continuously and fingers twirling a shirt button.What assessment can the nurse make? The patient's communication is:

A depressed patient is unable to maintain eye contact with the nurse.The patient's chin drops,and the patient looks at the floor.Which aspect of communication has the nurse assessed?

The relationship between a nurse and patient as it relates to status and power is best described by which term?

Which remark by the nurse gives a patient verbal tracking feedback?

A nurse working with a depressed patient used humor to lift the patient's spirits.At one point,the patient smiled.Select the best analysis.

Sequence these descriptions of personal space from close to far away. A) Social distance B) Public distance C) Intimate distance D) Personal distance

Which remark by the nurse would be an appropriate way to begin an interview session?

For each statement by a nurse engaged in an interaction with a patient, mark A if the statement is therapeutic and B if it is not therapeutic -"I noticed your hands trembling when you told me about your accident."

A patient says,"I dreamed I was stoned.When I woke up,I felt emotionally drained,as though I hadn't rested well." Which comment would be appropriate if the nurse seeks clarification?

During an interview,a patient attempts to change the focus from self to the nurse by asking personal questions.Select the nurse's most therapeutic response.

A nurse interviews a patient who is having difficulty with self-expression and staying focused.Select the nurse's most helpful comment.

Documentation in a patient's record shows: During 5-minute interaction,patient fidgeted,tapped foot,periodically covered face with hands,looked under chair.Stated,"I enjoy spending time with you." Which assessment is most accurate?

Which technique communicates to a patient that a nurse is listening?

For each statement by a nurse engaged in an interaction with a patient, mark A if the statement is therapeutic and B if it is not therapeutic -"Why do you think these events have happened to you?"