During the morning bath, the client asks if the nurse is religious and

During the morning bath, the client asks if the nurse is religious and believes in God. What would be most helpful for the nurse to consider in formulating a response to this question?

1. The nurse’s personal life is none of the client’s business.
2. Religion and politics are two subjects not discussed in polite interactions.
3. Will sharing this information positively contribute to the relationship?
4. What is the culture of the facility regarding self-disclosure?

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Although it is true that the nurse’s personal life is private, the nurse might decide to self-disclose.
Rationale 2: Some cultures do believe that religion and politics should not be discussed in polite interactions, but the client does deserve some answer to the question.
Rationale 3: Practice guidelines regarding support of religious practices indicate that the nurse should first consider whether such self-disclosure will contribute to a therapeutic nurse–client relationship.
Rationale 4: Although considering the culture of the unit is important, the nurse can make the clinical decision that what is generally done on the unit does not apply in this situation.