Therapeutic Comm Q 46
The nurse is preparing a patient for the termination phase of the nurse-patient relationship. The nurse prepares to implement which nursing task that is most appropriate for this phase?
A. Planning short-term goals
B. Making appropriate referrals
C. Developing realistic solutions
D. Identifying expected outcomes
Correct Answer: B. Making appropriate referrals.
Tasks of the termination phase include evaluating patient performance, evaluating achievement of expected outcomes, evaluating future needs, making appropriate referrals, and dealing with the common behaviors associated with termination. After the client’s problems or issues are addressed, the relationship needs to be completed before it can be terminated.
Option A: The working or middle phase of the relationship is where nursing interventions frequently take place. Problems and issues are identified and plans to address these are put into action. Positive changes may alternate with resistance and/or lack of change.
Option C: Develop realistic solutions belong to the working phase. New problems and needs may emerge as the nurse-client relationship develops and as earlier identified issues are addressed. The nurse advocates for the client to ensure that the client’s perspectives and priorities are reflected in the plan of care.
Option D: The remaining options identify tasks appropriate for the working phase of the relationship. The nurse assists the client to explore thoughts (e.g. views of self, others, environment, and problem-solving), feelings (e.g. grief, anger, mistrust, sadness), and behaviors (e.g. promiscuity, aggression, withdrawal, hyperactivity).