The nurse says to a patient, "I know it may be hard, but you should do what the doctor ordered because she is the expert in this field." Which statement is correct about the nurse's comment?

A) It is inappropriate because it shows the nurse's bias.
B) It is appropriate because members of the health care team are experts in their area of patient care.
C) This type of comment promotes dependency and inferiority on the part of the patient and is best avoided in an interview situation.
D) Using authority statements when dealing with patients, especially when they are undecided about an issue, is necessary at times.

Using authority responses promotes dependency and inferiority. Avoiding the use of authority is best. Although the health care provider and patient do not have equal professional knowledge, both have equally worthy roles in the health process. The other statements are not correct. The comment "I know it may be hard, but you should do what the doctor ordered because she is the expert in this field" by the nurse does not show bias. In addition, not all members in the health care field are considered experts and using authority should be avoided. Although the health care professional may have more professional knowledge than the patient, both have equally important roles since the patient must make the final decision about his or her health. Using authority responses promotes dependency and inferiority and avoiding the use of authority is best.