Deck 10: Empathy

Question 1

The nurse cares for a patient who becomes confused and a vest restraint is applied.The nurse should take which action when notifying the patient's family?

A)Avoid discussing the treatment plan to reduce anxiety and worry.
B)Ask another nurse who has rapport with the family to be present.
C)Use medical terms to demonstrate competence.
D)Assume that the family wants a detailed explanation.

Answer 1

Ask another nurse who has rapport with the family to be present.

Question 2

Which situation(s)would be appropriate for the nurse to communicate with empathy? Select all that apply.

A)An acquaintance who seeks a long-standing social relationship that is superficial.
B)A patient who is anxious about a change in body image after a mastectomy.
C)A supervisor who is searching for approval and recognition from staff.
D)A colleague who expected a promotion but was not awarded the promotion.
E)A client who has been alienated from family because of sexual orientation.

Answer 2

A patient who is anxious about a change in body image after a mastectomy.
A colleague who expected a promotion but was not awarded the promotion.
A client who has been alienated from family because of sexual orientation.

Question 3

A young mother who fractured her leg is sobbing with her face hidden behind her hands.She says to the nurse,"I will not be able to work for at least 2 months.Without my job,I cannot pay my bills or take care of my baby.I am alone and do not have anyone to help me." Which response by the nurse accurately conveys empathy?

A)"Why do you think that no one cares about you or will refuse to help you?"
B)"I can see that you are hesitant about relying on others because of low self-esteem."
C)"You seem worried about how you will be able to take care of yourself and your baby."
D)"I am sorry that you are uncomfortable with asking others for help right now."

Answer 3

"You seem worried about how you will be able to take care of yourself and your baby."

Question 4

The nurse cares for a patient with a terminal illness.Which way would be the most therapeutic for the nurse to communicate with this patient?

A)Use an honest,judgmental attitude.
B)Demonstrate understanding with empathy.
C)Acknowledge hope by expressions of sympathy.
D)Consistently evaluate the patient's feelings.

Question 5

The nurse cares for the mother of a child who died in the emergency room as a result of an accidental poisoning.Which response by the nurse is appropriate?

A)Place a greater emphasis on nonverbal aspects of empathy over verbal.
B)Accurately reflect on the mother's feelings to convey understanding and concern.
C)Repeat exact phrases stated by the mother to aid in expressions of grief.
D)Reflect on the expressed feelings of the mother but with the nurse's own words.