23. A registered nurse (RN) can best demonstrate empathy by:
. Revealing personal experiences with similar issues.
. Conveying genuine understanding of the client's problems.
. Identifying behavioral problems.
. Advising the client about better communication techniques.
Test-Taking Tip
Empathy = "understanding."
Content Area: Mental Health, Therapeutic Communication; Integrated Process: Caring; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Psychosocial Integrity/Therapeutic Communications
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Answer 1 is incorrect because the statement is a sympathetic, not empathetic, response. Answer 2 is correct because the intent is for the client to feel that the nurse understands the client's experiences and conveys this back to the client. Answer 3 is incorrect because empathy does not include problem identification. Answer 4 is incorrect because giving advice is not a therapeutic approach.