A young mother who fractured her leg is sobbing with her face hidden behind her hands. She says to the nurse, "I will not be able to work for at least 2 months. Without my job, I cannot pay my bills or take care of my baby. I am alone and do not have anyone to help me." Which response by the nurse accurately conveys empathy?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it acknowledges the patient's specific concerns about taking care of herself and her baby. By reflecting back what the patient has expressed, the nurse shows understanding and empathy. Choice A implies doubt in the patient's perception, B makes an assumption about low self-esteem without evidence, and D does not directly address the patient's immediate worries. Empathy involves actively listening, understanding the patient's emotions, and responding with sensitivity to their unique situation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "You don't want to walk today?" This response shows empathy and encourages the patient to express their feelings further. It validates the patient's emotions without judgment, fostering a therapeutic relationship. Choice A is directive and dismisses the patient's feelings. Choice C shifts the focus to the nurse's feelings, not addressing the patient's concerns. Choice D is confrontational and may make the patient defensive instead of exploring their feelings. In summary, option B demonstrates active listening and promotes open communication, making it the most therapeutic response.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct response is C: "It sounds like you really made a connection with Ms. C." This response acknowledges the student's positive interaction with the patient, encouraging empathy and recognizing the importance of building therapeutic relationships in nursing practice. By showing support and validation for the student's connection with the patient, it fosters a positive learning experience and reinforces the value of patient-centered care. Choice A is incorrect as it deflects responsibility onto the instructor and does not address the student's interaction with the patient. Choice B puts the focus on the student's opinion rather than acknowledging the relationship with the patient. Choice D is incorrect as it dismisses the student's connection with the patient and does not encourage the development of a therapeutic relationship.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: silence. In therapeutic communication, silence can be challenging for students as it requires them to be comfortable with pauses in conversation, which can sometimes feel awkward. However, silence can be a powerful tool in allowing the patient to reflect and express their thoughts. Closed questions (A) limit communication, restating (B) encourages the patient to elaborate, and using general leads (C) helps open up the conversation. Therefore, the practical nursing student will have the most difficulty with silence as it may be perceived as ineffective or uncomfortable.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because informing the patient about a medication error and symptoms to report demonstrates transparency, honesty, and prioritizing the patient's safety and well-being. It shows genuine concern by ensuring the patient is informed and involved in their care. Choice A is incorrect as it provides false reassurance. Choice B is incorrect as delaying notification can harm the patient emotionally and undermine trust. Choice C is incorrect as it involves deception and risks the patient's well-being for assessment purposes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Collaboration. Mutuality in the nurse-client relationship involves working together towards shared goals, with both parties actively participating and contributing to decision-making processes. Collaboration fosters a relationship based on equality, respect, and shared responsibility, leading to improved outcomes for the client. A: Dependency is not a characteristic of mutuality as it implies one party relying solely on the other, which goes against the principles of collaboration and shared decision-making. C: Paternalism is not a characteristic of mutuality as it involves a one-sided approach where the nurse makes decisions on behalf of the client without their active involvement or input. D: Acceptance of differences, while important in promoting understanding and respect in the relationship, is not a defining characteristic of mutuality. It is more about acknowledging and respecting each other's unique perspectives rather than actively collaborating towards common goals.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because using high levels of intimacy with a client in a professional setting is inappropriate and can violate boundaries. The nurse should maintain a professional relationship with the client to ensure ethical standards are upheld. A: Reminiscing about birthday celebrations is appropriate as it can help build rapport and show empathy towards the client. C: Sharing a personal story to establish trust is acceptable as long as it is relevant to the client's situation and does not breach confidentiality. D: Sharing information about meditation decreasing nausea during chemotherapy treatment is relevant and can provide valuable support to the client.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: - Choice A is correct because it is nonassertive and implies a desire for control over others' schedules, which may frustrate the nurse manager. - Choice B is incorrect because it shows indifference, not assertiveness. - Choice C is incorrect as it expresses a clear preference without being nonassertive. - Choice D is incorrect because it is assertive but in a negative and confrontational way.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because relaxed muscles and a concerned expression convey warmth. Relaxed muscles indicate a sense of calm and approachability, while a concerned expression shows empathy and care. Small pupils and a fixed gaze (A) can be perceived as cold or distant. Furrowed brow and wrinkled forehead (B) suggest tension or worry. Pursed lips and a forced smile (C) may come across as insincere. In summary, D is the best choice as it combines physical relaxation with emotional warmth.