Question

While discussing the treatment plan, the nurse infers that the patient is uncomfortable asking the physician for a different treatment because of fear of the physician's reaction. In this situation, the nurse's verbal interpretation:

A) affects the nurse-physician relationship.
B) impedes further discussion.
C) helps the patient understand personal feelings in relation to his or her verbal message.
D) helps the nurse understand his or her own feelings in relation to the patient's verbal message.

Answer 1

The nurse's interpretation assists the patient in recognizing and understanding their own feelings in relation to their reluctance to discuss treatment options, potentially promoting better communication with the physician.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's verbal interpretation in this scenario C) helps the patient understand personal feelings in relation to his or her verbal message. When a nurse provides an interpretation of the patient's nonverbal cues or hesitation to discuss alternative treatments with the physician, it empowers the patient by acknowledging their concerns and encouraging communication.

This support could help alleviate fear and encourage the patient to have an open conversation with the physician about their treatment options. It does not necessarily affect the nurse-physician relationship, impede further discussion, or help the nurse understand his or her own feelings—the primary intent is to clarify and address the patient's feelings.