A patient comes to the clinic with superficial cuts on the left ...

[fahad]

A patient comes to the clinic with superficial cuts on the left wrist. The patient is pacing and sobbing. After a few minutes with the nurse, the patient is calmer.
 
  What should the nurse ask to determine the patient's perception of the precipitating event?
 
  a. Tell me why you were crying.
  b. How did your wrist get injured?
  c. How can I help you feel more comfortable?
  d. What was happening just before you started to feel this way?

Question 2

While conducting the initial interview with a patient in crisis, the nurse should:
 
  a. speak in short, concise sentences.
  b. convey a sense of urgency to the patient.
  c. be forthright about time limits of the interview.
  d. let the patient know the nurse controls the interview.

[Joy Chen]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
A clear definition of the immediate problem provides the best opportunity to find a solution. Asking about recent upsetting events permits the assessment of the precipitating event. Asking why questions is a poor communication technique.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Severe anxiety narrows perceptions and concentration. By speaking in short, concise sentences, the nurse enables the patient to grasp what is being said. Conveying urgency will increase the patient's anxiety. Letting the patient know who controls the interview or stating that time is limited is nontherapeutic.

[fahad]

Excellent

[cassie_ragen]

Gracias!