Question

Select the best description of therapeutic use of self to provide to a new psychiatric nurse.

a. "Most nurses have caring personalities that equip them to be helpful to patients."
b. "It's mostly about using good verbal and nonverbal communication, objectivity, genuineness, and empathy."
c. "It means that you keep yourself at a distance so you are not affected by patients' problems and emotions."
d. "The most important aspect of practice is when and how much to touch, as well as when to listen and give advice."

Answer 1

The therapeutic use of self in psychiatric nursing involves using good verbal and nonverbal communication, objectivity, genuineness, and empathy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best description of the therapeutic use of self to provide to a new psychiatric nurse is option b: "It's mostly about using good verbal and nonverbal communication, objectivity, genuineness, and empathy."

Therapeutic use of self refers to the nurse's ability to consciously use their personality, emotions, and relationships to establish a therapeutic relationship with the patient. It involves effective communication, empathetic understanding, and maintaining objectivity while also showing genuineness in interactions with patients.

By using good verbal and nonverbal communication skills, the nurse can establish trust and rapport with the patient. Objectivity allows the nurse to remain unbiased and make objective observations and assessments. Genuineness means being authentic and sincere in interactions with the patient, while empathy involves understanding and sharing the patient's emotions and experiences.