A new patient in an alcoholism rehabilitation program says, "I'm just a social drinker. I usually have a drink or two at brunch, a few cocktails in the afternoon, wine at dinner, and a few drinks in the evening." Which response by the nurse will help the patient view the drinking more honestly?
A) "I see," and use interested silence.
B) "I think you may be drinking more than you report."
C) "Being a social drinker involves having a drink or two once or twice a week."
D) "You describe drinking steadily throughout the day and evening. Am I correct?"

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The answer summarizes and validates what the patient reported but is accepting rather than strongly confrontational. Defenses cannot be removed until healthier coping strategies are in place. Strong confrontation does not usually take place so early in treatment.

A New Patient in an Alcoholism Rehabilitation Program Says, "I'm