Question

Which observable behaviors would indicate to the nurse that the patient is experiencing information overload? Select all.

a. Fidgeting constantly while seated in the chair
b. A period of silence noted between a question
c. The patient wanting to continue talking about one subject of interest
d. The patient is yawning repeatedly
e. The patient is scanning the environment avoiding eye contact while the nurse is attempting to ask questions

Answer 1

Behaviors that suggest a patient is experiencing information overload include fidgeting, periods of silence after being asked a question, yawning repeatedly, and avoiding eye contact, which may prompt a nurse to adjust their communication methods.

Step-by-step explanation:

Observable behaviors that would indicate to a nurse that a patient is experiencing information overload include several visual and verbal cues that reflect difficulty in processing information. These may include:

• Fidgeting constantly while seated in the chair, which could suggest restlessness or an inability to remain focused due to overwhelming information.
• A period of silence noted between a question, indicating potential processing delays or confusion.
• The patient is yawning repeatedly, a sign that they may be fatigued or disengaged, possibly due to too much information.
• The patient is scanning the environment and avoiding eye contact while the nurse is attempting to ask questions, suggesting distraction or avoidance behavior, often associated with feeling overwhelmed.

These behaviors are important indicators for healthcare providers to modify their communication approach, ensuring that patients effectively receive and comprehend essential information.