Question

A nurse is talking with a patient, and 5 minutes remain in the session. This patient has been silent most of the session. Another patient interrupts and says to the nurse, "I really need to talk to you." The nurse should:

a. invite the interrupting patient to join the session with the current patient.
b. tell the interrupting patient, "This session is 5 more minutes, then I will talk with you."
c. say to the interrupting patient, "I am not available to talk with you at the present time."
d. end the unproductive session with the current patient. Spend time with the next patient.

Answer 1

The nurse should tell the interrupting patient, 'This session is 5 more minutes, then I will talk with you.'

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should choose option b. tell the interrupting patient, 'This session is 5 more minutes, then I will talk with you.' This response acknowledges the interrupting patient's need to talk, but also sets boundaries and prioritizes the current patient. It is important for the nurse to respect the time and needs of each patient.