247SimpleTests
NCLEX · Therapeutic Communication

A client is crying after receiving difficult news. Which nursing action best demonstrates therapeutic presence?

Correct answer

Sit with the client, offer a tissue, and allow silence, conveying support and a willingness to listen

  1. A Leave the room to give privacy and avoid intruding
  2. B Sit with the client, offer a tissue, and allow silence, conveying support and a willingness to listen
  3. C Tell the client to stop crying
  4. D Immediately offer detailed medical advice

Why this is the answer

Therapeutic PRESENCE after difficult news: SIT WITH the client, offer comfort (a tissue), and ALLOW SILENCE — conveying support, empathy, and a willingness to listen without rushing. NCLEX psychosocial/therapeutic communication. SILENCE is a therapeutic technique — it gives the client time to process emotions and shows the nurse is present and unhurried. Being physically present and emotionally available is powerful support. AVOID: leaving (can feel like abandonment when the client needs support), telling the client to stop crying (dismissive), or jumping to advice/information when the client needs emotional support first. Allow the client to express emotion. Knowing that therapeutic presence (sitting with, allowing silence) supports a distressed client is a commonly tested NCLEX communication concept.
Source: NCLEX Psychosocial — Therapeutic Presence/Silence

Practice more questions

This question is from our NCLEX Practice Tests practice test. Take the full practice test to test your knowledge across all Therapeutic Communication and other topics.

Take the RN: Psychosocial Integrity practice test →

New to this exam? Our NCLEX exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

Related questions

Therapeutic Communication

Which is an example of therapeutic communication?

 Therapeutic Communication

A client states 'I just can't take this anymore. I want to end it all.' What is the nurse's most appropriate initial response?

 Therapeutic Communication

A nurse responds to a client's tearful statement by saying, 'It sounds like you're feeling overwhelmed by everything that's happened.' This technique is called:

 Therapeutic Communication

A nurse is completing discharge teaching and the client says, 'I understand.' How should the nurse verify that understanding?

State-specific guides

Need information for your state? Our state guides cover local requirements, fees, and what to expect on exam day.

California Texas Florida New York Pennsylvania Illinois Ohio Georgia

Recommended study materials

Study guide

Saunders Comprehensive Review for NCLEX-RN 9th Ed. (Elsevier)

The gold standard for NCLEX-RN prep: 5,200+ practice questions, content review, test-taking strategy.

Check Price → Study guide

NCLEX-PN Prep Plus 2023 (Kaplan)

Targeted NCLEX-PN content review with hundreds of practice questions and video explanations.

Check Price → Study guide

Prioritization, Delegation & Assignment (Elsevier)

The leading resource for NCLEX questions on prioritization, delegation, and management of care.

Check Price →

As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate, and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links above are affiliate links. Full disclosure →