The nursing student is caring for a client who had a brain attack ...

[CBme]

The nursing student is caring for a client who had a brain attack (stroke) with right-sided paralysis several weeks ago and has difficulties expressing his thoughts when he talks. The nursing student should:
 
  A) complete the client's sentence when he pauses.
  B) anticipate what the client wants and ignore what he says.
  C) allow time for the client to finish talking before trying to figure out what it is he is trying to express.
  D) ask the client to write down what it is he wants.

Question 2

An older adult client who is scheduled for a computed tomography (CT) scan of her abdomen has admitted to the nursing student that she is deeply fearful of having this test because of her fear of pain. Which response demonstrates a communication block?
 
  A) What part of having a CT scan makes you most fearful?
  B) You'll find that there's actually no pain involved with this test.
  C) There, there. You have nothing to be afraid of.
  D) It can be frightening to undergo medical tests.

[huda]

Answer to Question 1

Ans: C
Feedback:
The client may be able to express himself when given ample time. If the client becomes frustrated, the nurse may help by asking simple yes and no questions to discover what the client is trying to communicate. The client will become more frustrated if the student tries to complete his sentences or ignores his attempt to communicate. Providing a means to write down the thoughts will not help after a stroke because the brain injury will also impair written communication. If the client is right handed, the client will not be able to even try to write since his right side is paralyzed.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: C
Feedback:
Saying, There, there. You have nothing to be afraid of downplays the client's concerns and has a condescending tone. Asking about the client's specific fears, empathizing, and providing relevant explanations are different approaches that can be conducive to therapeutic communication.