Which of the following should be avoided when communicating with a mentally ill patient?

A. Taking the time to convey respect for the patient Respect promotes trust and therapeutic alliance. B. Having an expectation that the patient will get better Positive expectations support hope and motivation for recovery. They are helpful, not harmful. C. Demonstrating through your expression and posture that you are listening Non-verbal communication reinforces that the nurse is engaged and empathetic—a cornerstone of therapeutic communication. D. Believing that the patient will not improve This attitude is harmful and defeatist. It may lead to substandard care and a lack of motivation to help the patient engage in treatment.