Your patient is a 27-year-old female who is distraught and crying after having her children taken by child protective services. Her sister called EMS because the patient threatened to cut her wrists. On your arrival you find that she has not attempted to harm herself and has no weapons within reach. However, she does not wish to speak with you. Which of the following actions is most likely to be effective when communicating with this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sitting down so that you are at eye level with the patient is most likely to be effective when communicating with this patient. This action shows that you are willing to listen and that you care. Maintaining a distance of 3 to 5 feet from the patient may be perceived as standoffish or uncaring. Telling the patient that you cannot help her unless she talks to you or that you want to help her, but you can't unless she calms down may come across as dismissive of her emotions and may escalate the situation.

Your Patient Is a 27-Year-Old Female Who Is Distraught and Crying