What allows a nurse to exert referent power over a client when providing nursing care?
A)The ability to withhold pain medication if the client does not comply with routines
B)The ability to provide the client with additional food when he or she does comply with the nurse's requests
C)The power given to the nurse by reason of state licensure
D)The establishment of a professional and personal relationship with the client

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Referent power is based on the trust, respect, and admiration a person has for another. Nurses can develop a referent power over their clients by establishing a personal and professional relationship based on trust, respect, and empathy. By providing emotional support and a caring attitude, the nurse can establish a strong connection with the client, which can enhance compliance with the nursing care provided. The ability to withhold pain medication or provide additional food may be forms of reward or punishment power, but they do not necessarily create referent power. State licensure is a source of legitimate power, but it does not create the personal connection that referent power requires.

What Allows a Nurse to Exert Referent Power Over a Client