Which approach demonstrates therapeutic communication when a resident asks questions about care?

• A. Respond with a scripted, medical-technical explanation.
• B. Listen and interrupt frequently to guide the resident.
• C. Use therapeutic communication: listen, acknowledge, clarify, and respond simply and respectfully.
• D. Silence the resident to avoid miscommunication.

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is using therapeutic communication with a resident who asks about care. When a resident asks questions, the best approach is to listen attentively, acknowledge their concerns, clarify anything you don’t fully understand, and respond in simple, respectful terms. This sequence shows you value the resident’s input, helps build trust, and makes information easier to understand, which supports safe and collaborative care. It also reduces anxiety by validating feelings and ensuring the resident feels heard.

Other approaches fall short for similar reasons: giving a scripted, technical explanation can feel impersonal and may miss what the resident needs to hear; interrupting the resident disrupts the conversation and can shut down questions; and remaining silent leaves the resident uncertain and unsure how to proceed with their care.