A nurse is leading a group in which members are encouraged to discuss their feelings and emotions. The group session is just starting when a client stomps into the room, slams a notebook on a table, and sits down. The client's affect is one of anger and hostility. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An effective group leader recognizes the effects of an individual's mood on the total group. Thus, an effective leader would realize that the client's intense anger could set the emotional tone of the entire group. If the purpose of the group is to deal with emotions, then choosing to discuss the member's problem at the beginning of the session would help limit the intense anger to the one person experiencing it. Keeping the focus off the client or asking the client to leave could disrupt the functioning of the group because the client's emotions can affect the entire group. Suggesting the client make a private counseling appointment may be appropriate later, after discussing the client's problem at the beginning of the session.

A Nurse Is Leading a Group in Which Members Are