Write examples of questions that could be used by a nurse to . . .

• gather information
• clarify observed cues to problems
• show concern for how client feels
• involve client in planning or in therapies
• evaluate if a client understands
• give some control to client
• evaluate degree of success of therapies

Categories of questions

1. Write examples of the following:

• neutral
• leading
• open - ended
• closed

2. Explain the advantages & disadvantages of these 4 types of questions.

3. Give an example of the beneficial uses of :

• paraphrasing (restating) which can be both leading & closed
• clarifying (verifying what is implied) which can be leading & closed
• clarifying (checking perception) can be a statement

4. Describe a nurse’s actions in the following categories that could bring out a defensive response in a patient?

his/ her relationship with a client :

• length
• rapport
• touch appropriate to client’s expectations

her/ his body language :

• use of eye contact & "en face" position
• talking at eye to eye level
• facial expression positive calm
• trunk still & leaning toward
• extremities open to client & relaxed

the time and place :

• client's energy level
• length of interaction
• potential for interruptions
• possibility of privacy

her/ his voice:

• pace of speech & silence
• variation in tone ( sound interested ) ?
• attitude respectful, confidant, upbeat ?

her/ his response to the client's statements / behavior :

• shows s/he has been listening
• helps client keep a focus :
• limits wandering from topic to topic
• invites client to expand on a statement
• avoids judgments : use of good, you should, I agree
• avoids patronizing : giving unwarranted reassurance
• avoids making client - as - opponent responses :

• defending self, doctor, hospital
• challenging a statement / behavior of client
• prying into client's private life

Source: Krozier, Erb, & Olivieri (1991) Fundamentals of Nursing (4th ed.) pages 177 - 181, 258 - 265.