During an individual therapy session, a nurse is listening to a client describe her addiction to methamphetamine. The client says, "I know I'm throwing my life away, but I just can't stop using."
The nurse maintains eye contact and occasionally nods as the client continues to discuss her addiction to drugs. The nurse responds by saying, "You're going through a difficult time." The nurse's actions and words are an example of:
A) Empathy
B) Sympathy
C) Apathy
D) Nontherapeutic communication
Ans: A
Feedback:
Being empathetic is an active process requiring careful listening and attending to the client. Direct eye contact, a concerned expression, occasional head nods, and a lean forward while listening are nonverbal communication skills that convey empathy. Empathetic responses, such as "You're going through a difficult time," can provide clients with an opportunity to listen to themselves and gain self-awareness.
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