Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is the main focus of the nurse-client relationship in psychiatric care?

1. To minimize discussions about the past

2. To encourage dependency on the nurse

3. To build trust and collaboration

4. To enforce hospital rules strictly

The correct answer is: To build trust and collaboration

The main focus of the nurse-client relationship in psychiatric care is to build trust and collaboration. This relationship is essential for effective therapeutic outcomes and is characterized by mutual respect and understanding. Establishing trust allows clients to feel safe while sharing their thoughts and emotions, which is crucial in psychiatric settings where individuals may experience anxiety, fear, or confusion. A collaborative approach not only empowers clients by involving them in their own care, but also fosters a supportive environment where clients can express themselves freely. Trust and collaboration serve as the foundation for interventions and allow nurses to better understand the clients’ needs and challenges, ultimately facilitating a more effective treatment process. It enables nurses to develop interventions that are tailored to the individual, leading to improved mental health outcomes. In contrast, minimizing discussions about the past can prevent clients from fully processing their experiences, which is often a critical step in the therapeutic process. Encouraging dependency on the nurse can impede a client's independence and recovery journey. Strictly enforcing hospital rules may create an atmosphere of rigidity that could hinder open communication and trust-building. Understanding the importance of a trusting and collaborative nurse-client relationship is vital for effective psychiatric care.