Fundamentals of Nursing Q 271
Which of the following is an example of appropriate behavior when conducting a client interview?
A. Recording all the information on the agency-approved form during the interview.
B. Asking the client, "Why did you think it was necessary to seek health care at this time?"
C. Using precise medical terminology when asking the client questions.
D. Sitting, facing the client in a chair at the client's bedside, using active listening.
Correct Answer: D. Sitting, facing the client in a chair at the client’s bedside, using active listening.
Active listening should be used during an interview. The nurse should face the patient, have relaxed posture, and keep eye contact. Nonjudgmental interest in the patient’s problems (active listening), empathy (communicating to the patient an accurate assessment of emotional state), and concern for the patient as a unique person are among the most important tools in the physician’s interpersonal repertoire. The difference between interviewing a patient who is lying flat in bed and one who is sitting in a chair can be striking. This simple act can emphasize patient autonomy and active involvement in the interview.
Option A: Note-taking interferes with eye contact. By recognizing the patient’s emotions and responding to them in a supportive manner, the clinician can conduct an effective patient-centered interview.
Option B: Asking “why” may make the client defensive. Frequently used opening questions include, “What problems brought you to the hospital (or office) today?” or “What kind of problems have you been having recently?” or “What kind of problems would you like to share with me?” These open-ended, non-directive questions encourage the patient to report any and all problems. At this point in the interview, it is important to let the patient talk spontaneously rather than restricting and directing the flow of information with multiple questions.
Option C: The client may not understand medical terminology or health care jargon. Questions should be worded so that the patient has no difficulty understanding what is being asked. Avoid using technical terms and diagnostic labels. The interviewer’s questions should indicate what type of information is requested, but not what answer is expected.