RPNCE - Registered Psychiatric Nurse of Canada Examination Therapeutic Relationships and Communication Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client admitted for anxiety states, 'I'm so worried about this new medication.
What if I have a terrible reaction?' Which of the following responses by the Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) best demonstrates the therapeutic communication technique of exploring?

Accepted Answer

"Tell me more about what specifically concerns you about having a reaction."

Answer

"Don't worry, adverse reactions are very rare with this medication."

Answer

"Why would you think you'd have a terrible reaction?"

Answer

"I can see you're anxious, but the doctor has prescribed what's best for you."

Question 2

During the termination phase of the therapeutic relationship, a client becomes visibly upset and says, 'I feel like I'm losing my only support system.' What is the RPN's most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the client's feelings and review the progress made during therapy.

Answer

Immediately extend the therapeutic relationship for a few more weeks.

Answer

Suggest that the client is becoming overly dependent and needs to be more self-reliant.

Answer

Provide personal contact information to stay in touch after termination.

Question 3

Which of the following is a core component of establishing a therapeutic relationship, as outlined in the RPNCE competencies?

Accepted Answer

Developing rapport and promoting trust through genuineness and empathy.

Answer

Offering personal advice based on the nurse's own life experiences.

Answer

Maintaining a strictly formal and distant demeanor to ensure professionalism.

Answer

Focusing the conversation primarily on the nurse's assessment of the client's problems.

Question 4

A client tells the RPN, 'I didn't take my morning medication because I'm feeling fine today.' The RPN responds, 'So, you felt well this morning and decided not to take your medication.' This response is an example of which therapeutic technique?

Accepted Answer

Restating

Answer

Confrontation

Answer

Giving recognition

Answer

Reflecting

Question 5

An RPN is working with a client who has a history of trauma. The nurse makes a conscious effort to be aware of their own personal beliefs and emotional responses during interactions to prevent them from affecting client care. This practice is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Therapeutic use of self

Answer

Countertransference

Answer

Consensual validation

Answer

Boundary violation

Question 6

A client in a group therapy session remains silent and avoids eye contact. Which action by the RPN is most therapeutic?

Accepted Answer

Make an observation, such as, 'I notice you've been quiet today. Is there anything you'd like to share?'

Answer

Insist that the client speaks to the group to overcome their shyness.

Answer

Allow the silence to continue indefinitely without intervention.

Answer

Ask other group members why they think the client is not participating.