Communication in Nursing Practice Questions Related

Review Communication in Nursing Practice Questions related questions and content

When a patient begins crying during a conversation with the nurse about the patient's upcoming surgery for possible malignancy, the nurse's most therapeutic response would be:

  • A. "Your surgeon is excellent, and I know he'll do a great job."
  • B. "Oh, dear, your gown is way too big, let me get you another one."
  • C. "Don't cry; think about something else and you'll feel better."
  • D. "Here is a tissue. I'd like to sit here for a while if you want to talk."
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. This response acknowledges the patient's emotions, offers support, and provides an opportunity for the patient to express their feelings. Offering a tissue shows empathy and readiness to listen. Sitting with the patient shows availability and willingness to engage further. This response validates the patient's emotions and fosters a therapeutic nurse-patient relationship.

Choice A is incorrect because it dismisses the patient's emotions and focuses on the surgeon rather than the patient. Choice B is incorrect as it ignores the patient's emotional distress and focuses on a non-essential issue. Choice C is incorrect as it invalidates the patient's feelings and suggests avoidance rather than addressing the emotions directly.