Therapeutic Nurse-Client Relationship Flashcards

A client with a terminal diagnosis states: 'I just want to know the truth, how long do I have?' The physician has not yet disclosed the prognosis. What is the best response?

Answer: 'I understand you want that information. I will let your physician know this is important to you and ask them to speak with you today.'

Prognosis disclosure is the physician's responsibility. The practical nurse advocates for the client's right to information by facilitating an urgent discussion with the physician.

An elderly client tearfully discloses being financially exploited by an adult child. The nurse is a mandatory reporter under provincial elder abuse legislation. What is the correct action?

Answer: Provide emotional support, inform the client of their rights and available resources, and report to the appropriate provincial authority

Mandatory reporting obligations in elder abuse legislation require reporting regardless of client consent. The process should include support, information, and compassionate communication.

A practical nurse enters a client's room and finds them crying silently. The nurse sits beside the client in silence for several minutes. Which therapeutic technique is being used?

Answer: Empathic presence and therapeutic use of silence

Sitting with a client in silence communicates presence, support, and acceptance without requiring words. This is therapeutic use of silence and empathic presence.

A practical nurse notices a client has stopped making eye contact, gives brief answers, and seems withdrawn after several days of care. What is the most therapeutic response?

Answer: 'I notice you seem quieter today. I want you to know I am here if you want to talk.'

Gently naming the observed change and offering presence without pressure creates a safe opening for the client to share if they choose.

A practical nurse says 'Your surgery went well' when a client asks how their operation went, but the nurse does not actually know the outcome. This represents which therapeutic communication error?

Answer: False reassurance

Offering reassurance based on uncertain or unknown information is false reassurance. It violates honesty and may damage therapeutic trust when the truth is revealed.

During the working phase of the therapeutic nurse-client relationship, what is the primary focus?

Answer: Identifying problems, collaborating on goals, and implementing strategies to promote health and coping

The working phase is the active therapeutic phase where problems are identified, goals are set, and interventions are implemented to achieve health outcomes.