A client comes into the emergency department with a non-life-threateni

A client comes into the emergency department with a non-life-threatening wound to the hand that will require stitches. The department is quite busy with other clients, their families, and other people in the waiting room.

The best way for the nurse to conduct an interview with this client is to:
1. Have the client wait until the department quiets down, since the wound is not too serious.
2. Tell the client to wait in the waiting room and fill out the paperwork.
3. Draw curtains around the client and nurse to provide as much privacy as possible.
4. Make sure the client’s back is to the rest of the room so as not to be heard by passersby.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale: The interview setting should be in a well-lighted, well-ventilated room that is relatively free of noise, movements, and distractions in order to encourage communication. The interview should also take place in an area where others cannot overhear or see the client if possible. In this situation, at least pulling a privacy curtain will help keep the client from view of others in the department. Merely making sure the client’s back is to the rest of the room is not as acceptable. Having the client wait may cause an unnecessary delay in treatment.