During an interview, a patient begins to cry and appears angry. Which response by the nurse is most therapeutic?
A) "This topic prompted an emotional response, tell me what you are feeling."
B) "This topic does not usually cause such an emotional response."
C) "Calm down and tell me what is wrong."
D) "I will leave you alone for a few minutes so you can pull yourself together."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acknowledging the patient's feelings and encouraging their expression communicates acceptance of the emotion. Crying is a natural behavior and should be permitted. "This topic does not usually cause such an emotional response" may be perceived by the patient as judgmental and it does not help the patient meet the current need. Encouraging the patient to stop crying so that the nurse can help is not supportive of the patient's current need. The therapeutic action is to postpone further questioning until the patient is ready to proceed. Leaving the room so that the patient can be alone is not supportive of the patient.

During an Interview, a Patient Begins to Cry and Appears