When taking a history from a newly admitted patient, the nurse notices that he often pauses and expectantly looks at the nurse. What would be the nurse's best response to this behavior?
a. Be silent, and allow him to continue when he is ready.
b. Smile at him and say, "Don't worry about all of this. I'm sure we can find out why you're having these pains."
c. Lean back in the chair and ask, "You are looking at me kind of funny; there isn't anything wrong, is there?"
d. Stand up and say, "I can see that this interview is uncomfortable for you. We can continue it another time."
ANS: A
Silent attentiveness communicates that the person has time to think and to organize what he or she wishes to say without an interruption from the nurse. Health professionals most often interrupt this thinking silence. The other responses are not conducive to ideal communication.
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