The nurse asks a client to explain the meaning of the phrase, “Every c

The nurse asks a client to explain the meaning of the phrase, “Every cloud has a silver lining.” This part of the examination is designed to measure:

1. Knowledge
2. Judgment
3. Association
4. Abstract thinking

ANSWER

ANS: 4
Interpreting abstract ideas or concepts, such as in explaining the meaning of this phrase, reflects the capacity for abstract thinking. The client with altered mentation will likely interpret the phrase literally or merely rephrase the words. An example of assessing knowledge would be ask-ing the client their reason for seeking health care. This example is not designed to measure knowledge. The nurse is not attempting to measure judgment. An example of assessing judgment would be to ask the client what they would do if they suddenly became ill when alone at home. The nurse is not attempting to measure association. An example of assessing association would be to ask the client to complete a phrase, such as “a dog is to a beagle as a cat is to a _____.”