Personal space and distance is a cultural perspective that can impact nurse-patient interactions. What is the best way for the nurse to interact with a patient who has a different cultural perspective on space and distance?
A) Allow the patient to adopt a position that is comfortable for him or her
B) Realize that sitting close to the patient is an indication of warmth and caring
C) Adopt a cultural preference similar to that of the patient
D) Remember not to intrude into the personal space of the elderly
Ans: A
Feedback: If the patient appears to position himself or herself too close or too far away, the nurse should consider cultural preferences for space and distance. Ideally, the patient should be permitted to assume a position that is comfortable to him or her in terms of personal space and distance. Options B and D are incorrect because "realizing" and "remembering" are not interactions. Option C is incorrect because adopting a cultural preference different from your own can be very uncomfortable for the nurse, which adds a barrier to nurse-patient interactions.
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