Ch 21 Communication & Therapeutic Relationships Mastery Exercise
In the context of assertive communication, describe what "fogging" is.
Answer: "Fogging" helps you accept criticism without becoming anxious or defensive. It acknowledges that there may be some truth to the criticism but allows the person to remain the judge of her own action (e.g., Suppose a physician says, "Are you playing pharmacist today?" You might respond, "I agree that I may not be a pharmacist and that I do not know everything there is to know about analgesics.")
Match the following definitions and terms. Definitions !. Elicits more than a "yes" or "no" response 2. Being helpful by facilitating interactions that focus on the client and his concerns 3. Warm, caring interest and concern for the person 4. A pause in communication that allows the nurse and client to think about what has taken place 5. The ability to see into the experience of another and understand the other's perspective of a situation A. Empathy B. Focusing C. Open-ended questions D. Therapeutic communication E. Silence F. Positive regard G. Restatement
Answer: 1, C 2, D 3, F 4, E 5, A
In which phase of the therapeutic relationship does the patient learn to trust the nurse? A. Orientation B. Working C. Termination D. Beneficial
Answer: A. Orientation Rationale: Trust is developed during the orientation phase of the nurse-patient relationship.
Which of the following is the best method for nurses to encourage clients to reveal their worries and concerns? A. Stand close to the patient and maintain eye contact. B. Sit down next to the patient and provide her with privacy. C. Look professional and confident. D. Provide privacy and avoid eye contact with the patient.
Answer: B. Sit down next to the patient and provide her with privacy. Rationale: Sitting close to the patient and providing privacy conveys respect and empathy for the patient and her concerns. Maintaining eye contact is a technique that demonstrates concern for the patient. However, standing next to the patient and appearing professional and confident can convey an attitude of authority but may be intimidating and may inhibit the patient from sharing her concerns. This position in the room also conveys the nurse is too rushed to come into a more personal space and communicate at a more deeper level.
Use of the phrases "Tell me more about . . . " or "I see" encourages clients to continue talking and expressing themselves. This is called: A. summarizing B. asking open-ended questions C. focusing D. encouraging elaboration
Answer: D. encouraging elaboration Rationale: Such questions are designed to elicit more comprehensive information from the client. Response A, summarizing, is restating briefly the patient's responses. Response B, asking open-ended questions, are questions designed to allow the patient to freely give a detailed response to them. Response C, focusing, is asking specific questions designed to have the patient provide more detailed information about one aspect of the assessment.
True or false) Assertive communication includes expression of both positive and negative thoughts and feelings openly, honestly, and non-judgmentally.
Answer: True. Rationale: Assertive communication is the expression of a wide range of positive and negative thoughts and feelings in a style that is direct, open, honest, spontaneous, responsible, and nonjudgmental. Assertiveness recognizes your rights while still respecting the rights of others.
