A patient reports little change in her blood pressure even though ...

[Mr.Thesaxman]

A patient reports little change in her blood pressure even though she has been doing the biofeedback exercises stating that, The machine has not been successful. The nurse will observe the next session being aware that:
 
  a. There are several different components that need to be mastered in order to achieve successful biofeedback results.
  b. The machine is a critical component of biofeedback during all phases and it's re-sponse needs to be monitored by a professional.
  c. A patient's relaxation skills need to be excellent because muscle responses play a large role in determining the success of biofeedback.
  d. The patient's mood and emotional stability affects one's ability to alter physio-logical results and thus affect positive results from biofeedback.

Question 2

The nurse describes in a balanced and neutral manner traditional medicine options that are available to treat a patient's health problems.
 
  The patient thanks the nurse and shares that he prefers to continue treatment with acu-puncture and Ayurvedic medicine. The nurse encourages the patient to carefully consider his choices and tells him that the staff is available if needed. The nurse's response demonstrates:
  a. Understanding of patient rights
  b. Lack of concern for the patient's well-being
  c. Respect for the patient's health care choices
  d. Inability to confront the patient about his inappropriate health choices

[ankilker]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
With biofeedback, a patient can learn to gain conscious control over bodily responses thought to be beyond voluntary command. Listening to the monitoring device makes the patient aware of whether or not the mental exercises, breathing, or other techniques being used are effective. The machine is only needed early in therapy. Muscle relaxation and emotions have a role to play but are not the only significant factors to be considered.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
After receiving all relevant, current information, patients have the right to make their own decisions about health care. This response shows respect for the patient's right to make such a choice and the nurse's understanding of the philosophy of holistic nursing. Although an un-derstanding of patient rights is vital, it is not the best description of the nurse's response. The nurse must remain objective and empathetic but may not interfere with the patient's choices. There is no need for confrontation.