Which communication techniques are therapeutic? Select all that apply.

A. Offering self, such as "I'll stay with you"
B. Asking "why" questions to understand behavior
C. Restating the client's message
D. Giving approval, such as "That's the right thing to do"
E. Using open-ended questions

Show answer and rationale

Correct answers: A, C, E

Open-ended questions, restating, and offering self encourage communication. Giving approval or disapproval and "why" questions can block communication or put clients on the defensive.

Source: Varcarolis' Foundations of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing, 10th ed.

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Practice therapeutic communication: pick the response that explores feelings, reflects, or stays with the client; reject 'why' questions, false reassurance, and advice.
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Which communication techniques are therapeutic? Select all that apply.

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