Test Bank for Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice - The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Process Related

Review Test Bank for Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice - The Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Process related questions and content

A patient is being admitted to the psychiatric unit. While explaining his reason for seeking admission, he describes how his 32-year-old son recently died of a heart attack. Which response by the nurse would enhance the effectiveness of this interview?

  • A. How is your wife handling your son?s death?
  • B. Do you have any other living children that can help you cope with this loss?
  • C. This must be a very difficult time for you.
  • D. I know exactly how you?re feeling; my 23-year-old son died unexpectedly last year.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A therapeutic response acknowledges the patient?s emotions and fosters rapport. 'This must be a very difficult time for you' reflects empathy and encourages further sharing. Options A and B shift focus to others, and option D involves inappropriate self-disclosure, which may detract from the patient?s needs.