A number of variables may influence the client's communication with the health care team. Which of the following is an example of an interpersonal variable?

Question

a. Postoperative discomfort
b. An extremely warm room
c. A talkative roommate
d. A loud television

Answer 1

A
Interpersonal variables are factors within both the sender and receiver that influence communica-tion. Perception is one such variable; each person's view of reality is unique and formed by his or her expectations or experiences. Examples of interpersonal variables are postoperative discomfort, anxiety, and medication effects.
An extremely warm room is an example of an environmental variable that may affect communi-cation because of the resulting discomfort.
A talkative roommate is an example of an environmental variable that may affect communication because of the distraction and lack of privacy.
Noise, such as a loud television, is an example of an environmental variable that may affect communication.