Therapeutic Comm Q 35
A client diagnosed with dependent personality disorder states, “Do you think I should move from my parent’s house and get a job?” Which nursing response is most appropriate?
A. "It would be best to do that in order to increase independence."
B. "Why would you want to leave a secure home?"
C. "Let's discuss and explore all of your options."
D. "I'm afraid you would feel very guilty leaving your parents."
Correct Answer: C. “Let’s discuss and explore all of your options.”
The most appropriate response by the nurse is, “Let’s discuss and explore all of your options.” In this example, the nurse is encouraging the client to formulate ideas and decide independently the appropriate course of action. Any problem or concern can be better understood if explored in depth.
Option A: Advising refers to telling the client what to do; giving an opinion or making decisions for the client is inappropriate. It implies that the client cannot handle life decisions and only the nurse knows what is best for the client.
Option B: Requesting an explanation or asking the client to provide reasons for thoughts, feelings, behaviors or events is nontherapeutic. There is a difference between asking the client to describe what is occurring or has taken place and asking him to explain why. Usually, a “why” question is intimidating.
Option D: Interpreting or making conscious what is unconscious to the client is nontherapeutic. The client’s thoughts and feelings are his own, not to be interpreted by the nurse or for hidden meaning. Only the client can identify or confirm the presence of feelings.