The nurse is caring for a patient with chronic lung disease. When the patient demands a cigarette after eating breakfast, the nurse responds, "If that was me, I wouldn't be asking for a cigarette. That is what has made you so sick in the first place." This nontherapeutic response is an example of what communication technique?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Giving advice implies that the patient cannot make his or her own decisions and the nurse accepts the responsibility for the action. Changing the subject ignores the patient's concerns. Stereotypical or generalized responses such as, "Don't cry over spilled milk" may be judgmental. A defensive response such as, "The nurses work very hard to take care of you" moves the focus of the conversation from the patient and limits further discussion.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient with Chronic Lung