Question

identify two types of nontherapeutic questions, give exemples for each and explain why they are nontherapeutic

Answer 1

1.Giving reassurance

Explanation/Rationale: Indicating to the client that

there is no cause for anxiety; thereby devaluing the

client’s feelings; may discourage the client from further

expression of feelings if he or she believes they will

only be downplayed or ridiculed.

Examples: “I wouldn’t worry about that if I were you.”

“Everything will be all right.”

Better to say: “We will work on that together.”

2.Rejecting

Explanation/Rationale: Refusing to consider or

showing contempt for the client’s ideas or behavior.

This may cause the client to discontinue interaction

with the nurse for fear of rejection.

Examples: “Let’s not discuss…” “I don’t want to hear

about…” “Don’t say that.” Better to say: “Let’s look at

that a little closer.”

3.Approving or disapproving
Explanation/Rationale: Sanctioning or denouncing
the client’s ideas or behavior; implies that the nurse
has the right to pass judgment on whether the client’s
ideas or behaviors are “good” or “bad”, and that the
client is expected to please the nurse. The nurse’s
acceptance of the client is then seen as conditional
depending on the client’s behavior.

Examples: “That’s right. I agree.” “That’s wrong. I
disagree.” “I don’t believe that.” Better to say: “Let’s
talk about how your behavior invoked anger in the
other clients at dinner.”

4.Agreeing or disagreeing

Explanation/Rationale: Indicating accord with or

opposition to the client’s ideas or opinions; implies that

the nurse has the right to pass judgment on whether

the client’s ideas or opinions are “right” or “wrong”.

Agreement prevents the client from later modifying his

or her point of view without admitting error.

Disagreement implies inaccuracy, provoking the need

for defensiveness on the part of the client.

Examples: “That’s right. I agree.” “That’s wrong. I

disagree.” “I don’t believe that.” Better to say: “Let’s

discuss what you feel is unfair about the new

community rules.”

5.Making stereotyped comments

Explanation/Rationale: Making empty conversation

encourages a similar response from the client. Cliches

and trite expressions are meaningless in a nurse-client

relationship.

Examples: “I’m fine, and how are you?” “Hang in there.

It’s for your own good.” “Keep your chin up.” Better to

say: “The therapy must be difficult for you at times.

How do you feel about your progress at this point?”