Describe how the RN establishes a caring, therapeutic relationship with each of these patients

The RN is caring for two (2) patients who present a challenge in developing a therapeutic relationship.

One is a 15-year-old male who experienced a head injury after being thrown from the back of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV). The patient was placed on a ventilator. On the third day of hospitalization he begins to be more responsive, opening his eyes on request and following the movement of people in the room. One of his parents attempts to stay with him all of the time.

The other patient is a female older adult who does not speak English as her primary language. She had just received a diagnosis where she will need to make serious decisions about her care. Her adult son wants to be her interpreter. There are some very personal questions the RN will need to ask during her assessment and is uncertain about the son’s involvement.

Using the scenario above create a discussion post in response to the following:

• Describe how the RN establishes a caring, therapeutic relationship with each of these patients. Choose one (1) of the patients and:
  • Identify one (1) actual nursing diagnosis which focuses on the communication process and adaptation to physiologic or psychological stress.
  • Identify one (1) risk nursing diagnosis which focuses on the communication process and adaptation to physiologic or psychological stress.
• What symptoms of anxiety or fear might the RN expect to assess and be prepared to address for the patient you chose?