Psychiatric Medications Q 64
Nurse Mylene recognizes that the most important factor necessary for the establishment of trust in a critical care area is:
A. Privacy
B. Respect
C. Empathy
D. Presence
Correct Answer: D. Presence
The constant presence of a nurse provides emotional support because the client knows that someone is attentive and available in case of an emergency. Establishing positive and trusting therapeutic relationships with patients has long been recognized as an essential component of nursing practice and is important for effective care. There are various challenges in clinical practice that make it increasingly difficult to deliver effective care centered on such relationships. Understanding and addressing these challenges is crucial to ensure a positive experience of care for patients, families, carers, and nurses.
Option A: Increasing therapeutic engagement has been identified as a priority within health care. Consequently, therapeutic interpersonal relationships need to be recognized in clinical practice, education, and research. Cioffi, exploring culturally diverse patient experiences in the acute care setting, found the development of therapeutic interpersonal relationships difficult, and therefore nurses require a greater capacity to develop a deeper consideration with educational support to enable effective and meaningful interactions.
Option B: Consequently, providing a supportive environment enhances clinician–patient engagement and communication. This is also echoed by Tabler et al who investigated patient care experiences and perceptions of clinician–patient relationships and concluded that communication underpins patients’ perception of interpersonal continuity. Fakhr-Movahedi et al also identified therapeutic interpersonal relationships as the essence of care and the development of trust as an enabler for patient engagement.
Option C: A therapeutic interpersonal relationship can be defined as one which is perceived by patients to encompass caring, and supportive nonjudgmental behavior, embedded in a safe environment during an often stressful period. These relationships can last for a brief moment in time or continue for extended periods. Typically, this type of relationship displays warmth, friendliness, genuine interest, empathy, and the wish to facilitate and support.