The patient interview consists of three phases: orientation (introductory), working, and termination. Each phase contributes to the development of trust and engagement between the nurse and the patient

Question

During the orientation phase of the interview, the nurse should:
a.
obtain demographic data using open-ended questions.
b.
establish the name by which the patient prefers to be addressed.
c.
gather general information using closed-ended questions.
d.
stand by the bedside to ask the needed questions.

Answer 1

ANS: B
The patient interview consists of three phases: orientation (introductory), working, and termination. Each phase contributes to the development of trust and engagement between the nurse and the patient. During the orientation phase of the interview, the nurse should establish the name by which the patient prefers to be addressed. Some individuals prefer formal titles of respect (e.g., Dr., Mr., Ms., Professor) and the use of surnames, whereas others are comfortable with less formality. How a patient is addressed is the patient's choice. Demographic data should be collected by asking focused or closed-ended questions. More general information can be gathered by open-ended communication techniques. When feasible, the nurse and the patient should be seated at eye level with each other. In this way, the interaction between the nurse and the patient is horizontal instead of vertical. Standing over someone implies control, power, and authority. The implication of power can result in less-than-optimal data collection and a potential conflict as the patient strives to regain control over the situation.