A nurse manager and a newly licensed nurse are engaged in an interview with a client. The newly licensed nurse tells the client, "You look like my sister. I love my sister and would do anything for her." Which of the following actions should the nurse manager take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Inform the newly licensed nurse that they are successfully building trust and rapport. While therapeutic communication is essential, personalizing the interaction in this way crosses professional boundaries. Comparing a client to a family member can create unrealistic expectations and blur the nurse-client relationship. Maintaining professional distance ensures objective and ethical care. B. Ask the newly licensed nurse if they are comfortable providing care to the client. While assessing a nurse’s comfort level is important, it does not address the boundary violation. The concern is not about the nurse's comfort but about maintaining professionalism in client interactions. Direct intervention is needed to correct the inappropriate statement and reinforce professional conduct. C. Record that the newly licensed nurse is able to maintain professional nurse-client boundaries. The statement made by the newly licensed nurse demonstrates a boundary issue rather than professionalism. Nurses should establish rapport without over-identification with clients. Documenting that the nurse maintained boundaries would be inaccurate and fail to address the issue. D. Assign the newly licensed nurse to a different client. The statement suggests an emotional attachment that may interfere with objective care. Reassigning the nurse prevents further boundary issues and allows for education on maintaining professionalism. Ensuring appropriate nurse-client relationships promotes ethical practice and patient-centered care.