Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is an appropriate response by the nurse when a client expresses discontent about their hospitalization?

1. Encourage them to stay positive

2. Restate their concerns

3. Advise them on hospital policies

4. Suggest alternative treatments

The correct answer is: Restate their concerns

When a client expresses discontent about their hospitalization, restating their concerns is an effective therapeutic response. This technique demonstrates active listening and validates the client’s feelings, showing that their concerns are being heard and understood. It helps to build rapport and trust between the client and the nurse, which is essential for effective communication and care. By restating the client’s concerns, the nurse can clarify any misunderstandings and encourage further dialogue, allowing the client to express their feelings more fully. This practice aligns with patient-centered care principles, where the focus is on the client's experiences and needs. It also opens up opportunities for discussing potential solutions or addressing their concerns more thoroughly. The other options, while well-intentioned, may not directly address the client's emotional needs. Encouraging positivity might dismiss the client's feelings, advising on hospital policies could come off as impersonal, and suggesting alternative treatments might not be relevant at that moment. Each of these alternatives might overlook the critical need to first acknowledge and validate the client's feelings about their situation.