When doing an admission assessment for a patient, the nurse ...

[torybrooks]

When doing an admission assessment for a patient, the nurse notices that the patient pauses before answering questions about the health history. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
 
  a. Interview a family member instead.
  b. Wait for the patient to answer the questions.
  c. Remind the patient that you have other patients who need care.
  d. Give the patient an assessment form listing the questions and a pen.

Question 2

An older Asian American patient tells the nurse that she has lived in the United States for 50 years. The patient speaks English and lives in a predominantly Asian neighborhood. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?
 
  a. Include a shaman when planning the patient's care.
  b. Avoid direct eye contact with the patient during care.
  c. Ask the patient about any special cultural beliefs or practices.
  d. Involve the patient's oldest son to assist with health care decisions.

[Benayers]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Patients from some cultures take time to consider a question carefully before answering. The nurse will show respect for the patient and help develop a trusting relationship by allowing the patient time to give a thoughtful answer. Asking the patient why the answers are taking so much time, stopping the assessment, and handing the patient a form indicate that the nurse does not have time for the patient.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Further assessment of the patient's health care preferences is needed before making further plans for culturally appropriate care. The other responses indicate stereotyping of the patient based on ethnicity and would not be appropriate initial actions.