health assessment exam 2 test bank Related

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During her prenatal checkup, a patient begins to cry as the nurse asks her about previous pregnancies. The patient says that she is remembering her last pregnancy, which ended in miscarriage. The nurse's best response to her crying would be:

  • A. "I'm so sorry for making you cry!"
  • B. "I can see that you are sad remembering this. It is all right to cry."
  • C. "Why don't I step out for a few minutes until you're feeling better?"
  • D. "I can see that you feel sad about this; why don't we talk about something else?"
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it shows empathy and validation towards the patient's emotions. By acknowledging the patient's sadness and giving her permission to cry, the nurse creates a safe and supportive environment. This response helps the patient feel understood and accepted, facilitating emotional expression and potentially leading to a deeper therapeutic relationship.

Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on the nurse's discomfort rather than the patient's feelings. Choice C is incorrect as it may come across as dismissive of the patient's emotions. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests avoiding the topic rather than addressing the patient's feelings directly.