ISPN & CGFNS Therapeutic Communication in Psychiatric Nursing 3

Question 1

A patient with paranoid delusions states 'The government is monitoring all my phone calls.' The MOST therapeutic nurse response is:

Accepted Answer

That must feel frightening. What has been happening for you recently?

Answer

That's impossible — the government doesn't do that to private citizens.

Answer

I find that hard to believe. What makes you think that?

Answer

Let me call the doctor to reassess your medications right away.

Question 2

'Voicing doubt' as a therapeutic technique involves:

Accepted Answer

Expressing uncertainty about the patient's interpretation without direct confrontation

Answer

Directly telling the patient their beliefs are irrational

Answer

Asking the patient for evidence to support their stated beliefs

Answer

Remaining silent to avoid reinforcing false beliefs

Question 3

Which phase of the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship involves establishing goals, defining roles, and setting expectations for the relationship?

Accepted Answer

Orientation phase

Answer

Working phase

Answer

Pre-orientation phase

Answer

Termination phase

Question 4

A psychiatric patient becomes agitated and says 'You never listen to me!' The MOST therapeutic response is:

Accepted Answer

I can see you're feeling frustrated — I want to hear what you're experiencing.

Answer

I have been listening carefully to everything you've said.

Answer

You shouldn't speak to me that way; I'm here to help you.

Answer

I'm sorry you feel that way, but that isn't fair to me.

Question 5

Cultural competence in therapeutic communication requires the psychiatric nurse to recognize that:

Accepted Answer

Nonverbal communication norms vary significantly across cultures

Answer

Direct eye contact always signals respect in every cultural context

Answer

Therapeutic techniques should be applied uniformly to all patients

Answer

Direct questioning is universally acceptable in mental health care

Question 6

Which of the following BEST describes 'suggesting collaboration' in therapeutic communication?

Accepted Answer

Let's think together about strategies that might help you manage stress.

Answer

I will coordinate your care plan with the full treatment team.

Answer

The team has already determined the best approach for your recovery.

Answer

I'll refer you to occupational therapy for coping skills training.

Question 7

When a nurse seeks clarification during a therapeutic interaction, the primary purpose is to:

Accepted Answer

Ensure the nurse accurately understands the patient's experience

Answer

Challenge the patient's interpretation of events

Answer

Guide the patient toward healthier thought patterns

Answer

Redirect the patient's focus to more productive topics