Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Examination (RPNCE) Practice test

How should the RPN respond to Mrs. Peterson when she describes her traumatic experience?

1. Redirect her to another subject because the topic is upsetting

2. Encourage her to share this experience in group therapy

3. Validate her feelings and allow her to discuss the event

4. Reassure her that as time passes this will become less upsetting

The correct answer is: Validate her feelings and allow her to discuss the event

Validating Mrs. Peterson's feelings and allowing her to discuss her traumatic experience is essential in providing effective emotional support. When individuals share traumatic events, they often seek acknowledgment and understanding of their pain. This validation can foster a therapeutic environment, allowing them to express their emotions and begin processing their trauma. By encouraging the discussion of the event, the RPN creates a safe space for Mrs. Peterson to explore her feelings, which can be crucial in her healing process. Open communication helps build trust between the nurse and the patient, which can lead to a stronger therapeutic alliance. It also provides an opportunity for the RPN to assess the patient's emotional state and needs further, making it possible to tailor further interventions effectively. Redirecting to another subject may dismiss the importance of her feelings and could hinder her ability to work through her trauma, leading to feelings of isolation. Encouraging group therapy is beneficial but might not address her immediate need for personal validation. Reassuring Mrs. Peterson that time will help may trivialize her experience rather than allowing her to process her emotions fully. Therefore, fostering a supportive and validating dialogue is key in this scenario.