The nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing a situational crisis. Which statement by the nurse best reflects the therapeutic communication necessary when caring for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

4. Stating that the nurse is sorry for what the patient has experienced reflects empathy. Assessing the patient's current emotional state and coping mechanisms that have been effective in the past require open-ended questions and attentive listening. Stating that the nurse knows how the patient feels hinders this communication and takes the focus off the patient. Telling the patient to stay busy does not empower the patient to identify and adopt coping strategies. Telling the patient it could have been worse minimizes the patient's unique experience.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Experiencing