ATI Mental Health Questions Related

Review ATI Mental Health Questions related questions and content

What principle should guide a nurse's fear about 'saying the wrong thing' to a patient in nurse-patient communication?

  • A. Patients tend to appreciate a well-meaning person who conveys genuine acceptance, respect, and concern for their situation.
  • B. The patient is more interested in talking to you than listening to what you have to say and is not likely to be offended.
  • C. Considering the patient's history, there is little chance that the comment will do any actual harm.
  • D. Most people with a mental illness have, by necessity, developed a high tolerance for forgiveness.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Effective nurse-patient communication is guided by the principle that patients value sincere and respectful interactions. A nurse's well-meaning approach that conveys acceptance, respect, and concern helps establish trust and rapport with patients, even if the nurse is apprehensive about making mistakes. It is essential for the nurse to focus on genuine intent and respect for the patient's situation rather than being consumed by the fear of saying something wrong.