IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg.Entrance-2026
Nursing Foundation
Easy

All of the following are therapeutic communication techniques in therapeutic nurse-patient relationship, except:

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Nsg.Entrance-2026

Explanation

  • Advising is a non-therapeutic communication technique, making it the correct answer to this 'except' question.
  • Giving advice or a personal opinion implies that the nurse knows what is best for the patient, which undermines the patient's autonomy.
  • This technique takes decision-making power away from the patient and can inhibit their own problem-solving process.
  • It can create dependency on the nurse rather than empowering the patient to manage their own health and make informed choices.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option A: Restating is a therapeutic technique. It involves repeating the patient's main point to show that the nurse is actively listening and to verify understanding.
  • Option C: Pinpointing, similar to focusing, is a therapeutic technique. It involves drawing attention to a specific point or inconsistency to help the patient gain awareness and insight.
  • Option D: Validating is a therapeutic technique. It involves acknowledging a patient's thoughts, feelings, and needs, which conveys empathy and builds trust.

Related Visual

Visual explanation — Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to Therapeutic vs. Non-Therapeutic Communication Techniques to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
  • Effective therapeutic communication is a cornerstone of nursing practice that builds trust, improves patient satisfaction, and enhances the accuracy of nursing assessments.
  • Using therapeutic techniques empowers patients to be active participants in their care, leading to better adherence to treatment plans and improved health outcomes.
  • What if a patient directly asks, 'What should I do?' A therapeutic response would be to avoid giving advice and instead guide the patient's own thinking, for example, by saying, 'Let's talk through the options you're considering' or 'What are the pros and cons you see for each choice?'.
How to Approach the Question
  • First, identify the negative keyword 'except' in the question stem. This signals that you are looking for the option that does not fit with the others.
  • The question asks for the technique that is NOT therapeutic. Therefore, three of the options will be therapeutic techniques, and one will be non-therapeutic.
  • Define 'therapeutic communication' as a patient-centered process that facilitates positive change and growth.
  • Evaluate each option: 'Restating' and 'Validating' are well-known therapeutic techniques that show active listening and empathy.
  • 'Pinpointing' is a form of focusing, which is also therapeutic.
  • 'Advising' involves telling the patient what to do, which is nurse-centered, not patient-centered, and is a known barrier to communication.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Therapeutic vs. Non-Therapeutic Communication Techniques
  • Stem keywords: therapeutic communication, nurse-patient relationship
  • Lead-in keywords: except
  • Negative lead-in flag: Question asks for the exception

Question ID

Q_aFwB5suCkwmCoHz_QLTh

Reference Book

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 84-86

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 2 p. 123-125

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