A student observes as an adult brother and sister lash out at the ...

[Pineappleeh]

A student observes as an adult brother and sister lash out at the nurse caring for their hospitalized parent. The parent lives at home but is dependent on the children for care and is obviously neglected.
 
  The nurse has informed the children that social work will be involved in their father's case. How does the nurse explain this interaction?
 
  A.
  Don't worry; they will calm down eventually.
  B.
  Families often get emotional in these situations.
  C.
  They are focusing attention on me, not the problem.
  D.
  This family is obviously highly dysfunctional.

Question 2

A nurse is providing anticipatory guidance to a mother of a toddler. Using communication theory, which information is the most appropriate?
 
  A.
  Don't nod your head 'yes' when you say 'no.'
  B.
  Explain things in several different ways.
  C.
  There is no need to see if a toddler understands.
  D.
  You shouldn't yell at such a young child.

[6ana001]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
This family is dysfunctional, but that does not go far enough to explain the situation. This behavior is known as triangulation, and occurs when a dyad diverts attention away from their problems and chooses instead to focus on a third party, in this case the nurse. Reassuring the student they will calm down is neither helpful nor accurate as the family members may choose to continue to lash out. Families often do get emotional, but again, this information is not really helpful.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
According to communication theory, verbal and nonverbal messages should be congruent. A verbal no accompanied by nodding the head yes is sending inconsistent messages. Messages should be clear, so explaining things in many different ways would not be recommended. Good communicators determine if the listener has understood. Good communication demonstrates love and support clearly, but the advice to not yell is vague and seems to send the message that yelling at an older child would be more acceptable.

[Pineappleeh]

Excellent

[mochi09]

TYSM