Desired outcomes of a nurse assuming the role of participant observer during an interaction with a

Question

client would include (more than one answer may be correct)

A. client anxiety level decreases
B. nurse self-awareness is enhanced
C. the nurse views the client as a unique individual
D. the focus of the interaction remains client centered

Answer 1

ANS: B, C, D
Rationale: Option B is a desirable outcome. Being a participant observer involves participating in an
interaction with a client and simultaneously being aware of both the client's reactions and one's own
reactions. Self-awareness promotes true mutuality. Option C: Participant observation promotes
viewing the client as a person with unique attributes. Seeing the client as a unique individual
diminishes distortions and stereotyping. Option D: Participant observation promotes self-awareness.
The nurse who has self-awareness is able to separate his or her own needs from those of the client
and remain client focused. Option A: Although anxiety reduction would be a desirable outcome, it
cannot be seen as resulting from the nurse acting as a participant observer. Other interventions
would probably be necessary.