After several therapeutic encounters with a patient who recently attempted suicide, which occurrence should cause the nurse to consider the possibility of countertransference?

A) The patient's reactions toward the nurse seem realistic and appropriate.
B) The patient states, "Talking to you feels like talking to my parents."
C) The nurse feels unusually happy when the patient's mood begins to lift.
D) The nurse develops a trusting relationship with the patient.

Question

Elizabeth Batson · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : C, Explanation :  Strong positive or negative reactions toward a patient, or an overidentification with a patient signal possible countertransference. Nurses must carefully monitor their own feelings and reactions to detect countertransference and then seek supervision. Realistic and appropriate reactions from a patient toward a nurse are desirable. One incorrect response suggests transference. A trusting relationship with the patient is desirable.

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