ati health assessment test bank Related

Review ati health assessment test bank related questions and content

A 16-year-old boy has just been admitted for overnight observation after being in an automobile accident. What is the nurse's best approach to communicating with him?

  • A. Use periods of silence to communicate respect for him.
  • B. Be totally honest with him, even if the information is unpleasant.
  • C. Tell him that everything that is discussed will be kept totally confidential.
  • D. Use slang language when possible to help him open up.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Be totally honest with him, even if the information is unpleasant. This is the best approach because honesty builds trust and credibility, crucial in a healthcare setting. It allows the teenager to make informed decisions about his care and fosters a therapeutic relationship.

Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect:
A: Using periods of silence may be misinterpreted as indifference or lack of engagement.
C: Promising total confidentiality may not be feasible in healthcare settings and could lead to potential harm if critical information needs to be shared with others for the patient's safety.
D: Using slang language may come across as unprofessional and may hinder effective communication and understanding between the nurse and the patient.