Communication in Nursing Practice Questions Related

Review Communication in Nursing Practice Questions related questions and content

A Hispanic patient approaches the Asian nurse and, standing very close, touches the nurse's shoulder during their conversation. The nurse begins to step back to 18 to 24 inches, while smiling and nodding to the patient. This situation is most likely an example of:

  • A. the nurse's need to maintain a professional role rather than a social role.
  • B. a patient's attempt to keep the nurse's attention.
  • C. a nurse's need to establish a more appropriate location for conversation.
  • D. a difference in culturally learned personal space of the nurse and the patient.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: a difference in culturally learned personal space of the nurse and the patient. This is because different cultures have varying norms regarding personal space. In this scenario, the Hispanic patient touching the Asian nurse's shoulder and standing very close suggests a cultural difference in personal space expectations. The nurse stepping back to establish a distance of 18 to 24 inches is a respectful response to accommodate the patient's cultural norm. It demonstrates cultural competence and understanding.

Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect:
A: the nurse's need to maintain a professional role rather than a social role - This choice does not address the cultural aspect of personal space and assumes the nurse's response is solely professional.
B: a patient's attempt to keep the nurse's attention - This choice does not consider the cultural factor influencing the patient's behavior.
C: a nurse's need to establish a more appropriate location for conversation - This choice does not acknowledge the cultural difference in personal space as the primary reason for the nurse