In using communication skills with clients, the nurse evaluates which

In using communication skills with clients, the nurse evaluates which response as being the most therapeutic?

1. “Why don’t you stick to the special diet?”
2. “I noticed that you didn’t eat lunch. Is something wrong?”
3. “I think you need to find another physician that’s better than this one.”
4. “We can’t continue talking about your problems; it’s time for your bath.”

ANSWER

ANS: 2
The nurse who is sharing an observation, “I noticed that you didn’t eat lunch. Is something wrong?” is using the most therapeutic response. Sharing observations often helps the client com-municate without the need for extensive questioning, focusing, or clarification. “Why don’t you stick to the special diet?” is an example of a nontherapeutic response. It is asking for an explana-tion. “Why” questions can cause resentment, insecurity, and mistrust. “I think you need to find another physician that’s better than this one.” is not a therapeutic response. It is giving a personal opinion. Changing the subject, “We can’t continue talking about your problems; it’s time for your bath,” is not therapeutic.