The nurse believes that a patient is having emotional pain. Which ...

[cherise1989]

The nurse believes that a patient is having emotional pain. Which remark is most therapeutic?
 
  a. I hear how painful this is for you. I would like to help you deal with it.
  b. I'm so sorry this has happened to you. You don't deserve it.
  c. What would you like me to do to help you through this?
  d. I don't think this is as serious as you believe it is.

Question 2

A patient with major depression shows the nurse a passage in the Bible and says, How do you think this verse relates to me? The nurse is unfamiliar with the verse and unsure how to respond. Select the nurse's best action.
 
  a. Ask the patient, What do you think the verse means?
  b. Invite professional clergy to join the dialogue with the patient.
  c. Explain to the patient, I'm not familiar with that passage. It would be better for me not to comment.
  d. Say to the patient, Would you bring that up in the group session? You can get input from several people about what the verse means.

[onowka]

Answer to Question 1

A
This remark uses empathy to acknowledge the patient's feelings and then offers help. Using empathy tells the patient that his or her feelings are understood. Offering help implies hope for a positive resolution. Empathy, rather than sympathy, is a useful tool. Asking what to do for the patient implies helplessness on the part of the nurse. Minimizing the problem is demeaning to the patient.

Answer to Question 2

B
The correct answer shows that the nurse recognizes personal limits but remains engaged in the interaction with the patient. The distracters reject the patient's concerns.

[cherise1989]

Excellent

[Animal_Goddess]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it