Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) PN-RN Practice Test

What is an effective way to establish trust with a patient in a nursing context?

1. Maintain strict professionalism without personal touch

2. Share personal experiences

3. Consistently respect patient confidentiality

4. Provide superficial assurances

The correct answer is: Consistently respect patient confidentiality

Establishing trust with a patient in a nursing context is fundamentally anchored in the concept of confidentiality. Consistently respecting patient confidentiality demonstrates to the patient that their personal information is safe and treated with the utmost respect. When patients feel that their privacy is safeguarded, it fosters a secure environment in which they can express their concerns and share sensitive information without fear of judgment or exposure. Respecting confidentiality is crucial in building a therapeutic relationship, as it aligns with ethical standards and professional regulations in healthcare. Patients are more likely to open up and communicate honestly about their health issues when they know their privacy is being prioritized. This trust is essential for effective diagnosis, treatment, and overall patient cooperation. In contrast, maintaining strict professionalism without a personal touch might create distance between the nurse and patient, making it harder to establish rapport. Sharing personal experiences can sometimes harm the professional boundary necessary in the caregiver-patient relationship, potentially leading to perceived biases or discomfort. Superficial assurances, while intended to comfort, may come off as insincere if not backed by genuine actions, like maintaining confidentiality. Overall, emphasizing and practicing confidentiality is a foundational element in nurturing trust among patients in healthcare settings.