Therapeutic Comm Q 6
A client is struggling to explore and solve a problem. Which nursing statement would verbalize the implication of the client’s actions?
A. "You seem to be motivated to change your behavior."
B. "How will these changes affect your family relationships?"
C. "Why don't you make a list of the behaviors you need to change."
D. "The team recommends that you make only one behavioral change at a time."
Correct Answer: A. “You seem to be motivated to change your behavior.”
This is an example of the therapeutic communication technique of verbalizing the implied. Verbalizing the implied puts into words what the client has only implied or said indirectly. The nurse should take care to express only what is fairly obvious; otherwise, the nurse may be jumping to conclusions or interpreting the client’s communication.
Option B: This statement can be referred to as formulating a plan of action, wherein the nurse is asking the client to consider the kinds of behavior likely to be appropriate in future situations. It may be helpful for the client to plan in advance what he or she might do in future similar situations.
Option C: Usually a “why” question is intimidating. In addition, the client is unlikely to know why and may become defensive trying to explain himself. Requesting an explanation or asking the client to provide reasons for thoughts, feelings, behaviors or events is nontherapeutic.
Option D: 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.