A new nurse tells a mentor "I want to convey to my clients that I am interested in them and that I

Question

want to listen to what they have to say.".

The behaviors helpful in meeting the nurse's goal include
the nurse (more than one answer may be correct)
A. sitting behind a desk, facing the client.
B. introducing herself to the client and identifying her staff role.
C. using facial expressions that convey interest and encouragement.
D. assuming an open body posture and sometimes mirror imaging.
E. maintaining control of the topic under discussion by asking direct questions.

Answer 1

ANS:
B, C, D
Rationale: Options B, C, and D are helpful behaviors. Trust is fostered when the nurse introduces
herself and identifies her role. Facial expressions that convey interest and encouragement support the
nurse's verbal statements to that effect and strengthen the message. An open body posture conveys
openness to listening to what the client has to say. Mirror imaging enhances client comfort. Option
A: The desk places a physical barrier between the nurse and client. A face-to-face stance should be
avoided when possible and a less intense 90- or 120-degree angle used to permit either party to look
away without discomfort. Option E: Once introductions have been accomplished the nurse should
turn the interview over to the client by using an open-ended question such as "Where should we
start?"