Answer to Question 1
Answer: 2
Explanation: The nurse's authenticity is reflected in how the nurse directs energy toward getting to know the patient as the patient is, in the patient's world. Thus, the best example of authenticity is showing empathy towards the patient. Empathy is the ability to feel for others, whereas sympathy is feeling pity toward others. Sitting quietly with the patient is displaying the therapeutic communication technique of silence. Sharing personal information with the patient is not therapeutic and does not exemplify authenticity.
Answer to Question 2
Answer: 3
Explanation: The nurse must be aware of his or her feelings when caring for this patient. The nurse recognizes that before meeting any patient, it is important to recognize one's feelings and clarify beliefs and attitudes, especially when receiving medical information that might be unusual or even frightening. Assessing the patient's needs and abilities and interviewing the family may be helpful in caring for this patient, but these actions will not necessarily enhance the nurse's self-awareness. Reading the record and talking with the health care provider suggests that the nurse has difficulty confronting feelings and will rely on others for guidance.