Nokea
During a health history interview, the nurse listens to a patient relating the precipitating events that led to the onset of chest pain. She focuses her attention on the patient, makes eye contact, and acknowledges what the patient has to say. The nurse is exhibiting:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: active listening. Active listening involves fully focusing on the speaker, making eye contact, acknowledging what they are saying, and showing genuine interest in their words. In this scenario, the nurse is attentively listening to the patient's account of the events leading to chest pain, demonstrating active listening skills by being present in the moment and engaging with the patient's narrative.
A: Assertive communication involves expressing one's thoughts and feelings clearly and respectfully. This choice is incorrect because the nurse is not actively expressing her thoughts or feelings in this situation.
C: Empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another. While empathy is important in nursing care, the nurse in this scenario is primarily engaged in listening rather than specifically expressing empathy.
D: Passive communication is characterized by a lack of assertiveness and active engagement in the conversation. This choice is incorrect because the nurse is actively listening and engaging with the patient's narrative.