A patient cries as the nurse explores the patient's relationship with a deceased parent. The patient says, "I shouldn't be crying like this. It happened a long time ago." Which responses by the nurse will facilitate communication? (Select all that apply.)
A) "Why do you think you are so upset?"
B) "I can see that you feel sad about this situation."
C) "The loss of your parent is very painful for you."
D) "Crying is a way of expressing the hurt you're experiencing."
E) "Let's talk about something else because this subject is upsetting you."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reflecting ("I can see that you feel sad" or "This is very painful for you") and giving information ("Crying is a way of expressing hurt") are therapeutic techniques. "Why" questions often imply criticism or seem intrusive or judgmental, and they are difficult to answer. Changing the subject is a barrier to communication.

A Patient Cries as the Nurse Explores the Patient's Relationship