Question

The nurse can use self-disclosure with a client if:

1. the nurse has experienced the same situation as the client.
2. the client asks the nurse directly about the experience.
3. it helps the client to talk more easily.
4. it achieves a specific therapeutic goal.

Answer 1

Nurses may use self-disclosure with a client to facilitate communication or achieve a therapeutic goal, ensuring it serves the client's needs and maintains professional boundaries.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse can use self-disclosure with a client if it meets certain professional and therapeutic criteria. Specifically, self-disclosure should be employed if it assists the client to communicate more freely or if it accomplishes a particular therapeutic objective.

While it may often appear that relating personal experiences could build rapport, healthcare professionals must be judicious in ensuring that any self-disclosure serves the client's needs rather than the nurse's. Sharing personal information is a part of building intimacy and reciprocity in a relationship;

however, in a healthcare setting, it should always be used with the goal of benefiting the client. For instance, a nurse sharing a similar experience could make the client feel understood and less alone, thereby facilitating a therapeutic environment. However, this should only be done if it directly benefits the therapeutic process and helps the client without overstepping professional boundaries.