NCLEX-RNPsychosocial IntegrityEasy
A nurse is caring for a client who says, "I don't know what to do about my marriage." Which response by the nurse best demonstrates therapeutic communication?
- A"Tell me more about what is happening in your marriage."
- B"Why do you think your marriage is having problems?"
- C"Don't worry, marriages go through rough patches all the time."
- D"You should probably see a marriage counselor."
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. "Tell me more about what is happening in your marriage."
Using an open-ended statement that invites elaboration encourages the client to explore feelings and share information without judgment or direction, which is the core of therapeutic communication.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. "Why" questions put clients on the defensive and imply blame.
- C. This is false reassurance and minimizes the client's concern.
- D. Giving advice is a nontherapeutic technique that removes the client's autonomy.
Open-Ended Communication
A therapeutic communication technique using broad statements or questions that invite the client to elaborate on thoughts and feelings.
- Avoids yes/no answers
- Encourages client-led disclosure
- Avoid 'why' questions which sound accusatory
- Avoid giving advice or false reassurance
Memory trick: "Tell me more" opens the door, advice and 'why' shut it.