A nurse enters a client's room and asks about his level of pain. The client, grimacing, says "It's fine." Which of the factors of communication is the client struggling with?

Question

1. Territoriality
2. Environment
3. Congruence
4. Attitude

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Territoriality is a concept of the space and things that an individual considers as belonging to the self.
Rationale 2: The environment involved in communication must be comfortable. Otherwise it may distract and impair communication.
Rationale 3: In congruent communication, the verbal and nonverbal aspects of the message match. Saying his pain level is "fine," but then showing with facial grimacing that it is not, would be in conflict.
Rationale 4: Attitudes can convey beliefs, thoughts, and feelings about people and events-not what is described in this scenario.