Therapeutic Comm Q 18
Nurse Patrick is interviewing a newly admitted psychiatric client. Which nursing statement is an example of offering a general lead?
A. "Do you know why you are here?"
B. "Are you feeling depressed or anxious?"
C. "Yes, I see. Go on."
D. "Can you chronologically order the events that led to your admission?"
Correct Answer: C. “Yes, I see. Go on.”
The nurse’s statement, “Yes, I see. Go on.” is an example of the therapeutic communication technique of a general lead. Offering a general lead encourages the client to continue sharing information. General leads indicate that the nurse is listening and following what the client is saying without taking away the initiative for the interaction.
Option A: Asking the client why he is here is a type of exploring. Exploring refers to delving further into a subject or idea. When clients deal with topics superficially, exploring can help them examine the issue more fully. Any problem or concern can be better understood if explored in depth.
Option B: Asking the client if he is depressed or anxious may be inappropriate because it may put words into the client’s mouth. It would be best to let the client speak out by offering him leads or encouraging him to voice out his feelings through exploring.
Option D: Placing events in time or sequences refer to clarifying the relationship of events in time. Putting events in proper sequence helps both the nurse and the client to see them in perspective. The client may gain insight into cause-and-effect behavior and consequences.