Test Bank for Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice - Mental Health Assessment of Children and Adolescents Related

Review Test Bank for Psychiatric Nursing: Contemporary Practice - Mental Health Assessment of Children and Adolescents related questions and content

The nurse is beginning an assessment interview with an 8-year-old girl who has been brought in for counseling by her parents. When beginning the interview, which question would be most appropriate for the nurse to ask first?

  • A. How are you feeling?
  • B. How old are you?
  • C. Has anyone told you about why you are here today?
  • D. Why do you think I?m talking to you alone without your parents here?
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Asking if the child knows why she is there (C) is a gentle, open-ended start that clarifies her understanding and builds rapport. Asking about feelings (A) may be too direct initially, age (B) is factual but less engaging, and questioning the absence of parents (D) may raise anxiety.