A nurse plans to engage in participant observation while conducting a mental status examination. This will require the nurse to:

Question

a. increase verbalization with the patient.
b. listen attentively to the patient's response.
c. engage in communication and observation simultaneously.
d. advise the patient on what to do about data obtained during the interview.

Answer 1

C
Participant observation is a clinical approach that allows the nurse to critically observe a patient while structuring the examination in a way that allows for the broad exploration of many areas to screen for potential problems and for the in-depth exploration of obvious symptoms or maladaptive coping responses. Discussing treatment options is not the purpose of this intervention. Verbalization and attentive listening are required but may not need to be increased.