A nurse is conducting a health history of an adolescent who is accompanied by a parent. Which of the following interviewing techniques should the nurse use?

Effective adolescent interviewing requires specialized communication techniques that promote trust and autonomy. Nurses must apply developmental knowledge to gather accurate health data while respecting the adolescent's growing need for privacy and their transition toward becoming an independent healthcare consumer. Choice A rationale While empathy is appropriate, sympathy can be patronizing and may hinder an objective assessment. The nurse should maintain a professional, non-judgmental stance to encourage the adolescent to share honest information about their health concerns and lifestyle. Choice B rationale Interviewing the parent first can make the adolescent feel excluded or like a secondary participant in their own care. To build rapport, the nurse should focus on the adolescent and provide opportunities for private conversation without parents. Choice C rationale Providing personal opinions is non-therapeutic and can be perceived as judgmental. When discussing sensitive topics like sexual history, the nurse must remain objective and use neutral language to ensure the adolescent feels safe providing honest answers. Choice D rationale This is the correct technique because open-ended questions encourage the adolescent to elaborate and provide detailed information. This approach avoids simple yes or no answers, allowing the nurse to better understand the adolescent's perspectives and health behaviors..