A nursing student has complimented an older adult female client on her elaborate diamond ring. The client replies, That was a gift from my late husband. He was a wonderful man. The client then pauses and the nursing student notices a tear in her eye.
Which action best demonstrates empathy?
A) Tell the client, I'll give you some privacy and quietly leave the room.
B) Ask the client, Are you feeling sad because your husband died recently?
C) Stay silent for a moment and allow the client to gather her thoughts.
D) Ask the client if she would like to have a visit from the chaplain or a counselor.
Question 2
A nursing student is conscientious in her efforts to cultivate empathy with clients. Which characteristic is associated with empathy?
A) Maintaining emotional distance in order to conserve emotional energy
B) Experiencing the same emotions that clients and clients experience
C) Providing evidence-based solutions to the problems of others
D) Teaching clients and clients how to effectively distract themselves from their issues and problems