NURS 3100 Exam 1 Practice

What is the best therapeutic response by the nurse if a client has not been taking the prescribed antihypertensive medication?

1. I really doubt that you are taking your medication. What would you think about talking to the physician?

2. Taking medication can be difficult for some people. What are some of your concerns about the medication?

3. You are one of my favorite patients and I want you to be safe. Are you really taking your medication?

4. Your blood pressure is really high; do you realize the serious consequences of not taking your medication?

The correct answer is: I really doubt that you are taking your medication. What would you think about talking to the physician?

Option A is the best therapeutic response because it does not put the client on the defensive but rather opens up a dialogue between the client and the healthcare provider. By expressing doubt in a non-confrontational way and suggesting consulting the physician, the nurse encourages the client to discuss their concerns or reasons for not taking the medication. This approach helps to maintain a supportive and collaborative relationship, which is essential in addressing non-adherence to medication. Option B acknowledges the difficulties some people may have with taking medication, but it does not actively encourage the client to address their non-adherence behavior with the healthcare provider. Option C may come across as insincere and does not directly address the issue of medication non-adherence. Option D uses a confrontational approach by highlighting the consequences of not taking the medication, which may cause the client to become defensive and less likely to open up about their reasons for non-adherence.