Question

While working with an older male client, the nurse begins to think that the client reminds her of her grandfather, and responds as if she was the granddaughter. The nurse is developing which of the following?

1. Empathy
2. Transference
3. Modeling
4. Countertransference

Answer 1

The nurse experiencing feelings that a client is similar to her grandfather and responding like a granddaughter is an example of countertransference, which can affect the professional relationship between healthcare providers and patients.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse developing feelings that the client reminds her of her grandfather and responding as if she was the granddaughter is experiencing countertransference. Countertransference is a situation where a healthcare professional projects their own emotional reactions and personal experiences onto the patient, which can stem from unresolved feelings or experiences with similar individuals from their past. In contrast with transference, where a patient may redirect feelings for others onto a healthcare professional, countertransference is the reverse and can affect the objectivity and therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the client. Awareness and management of these reactions are key to maintaining professionalism in a healthcare setting.