Which communication technique is demonstrated by asking a patient to 'Tell me more about your grandchildren'?

Which communication technique is demonstrated by asking a patient to 'Tell me more about your grandchildren'?

• A. Closed-ended question
• B. Reflective listening
• C. Open-ended question
• D. Direct confrontation

Answer: (C)

Opening the conversation with an open-ended prompt invites the patient to share more details in their own words. “Tell me more about your grandchildren” requests a narrative rather than a yes/no answer, encouraging discussion of relationships, routines, feelings, and concerns. This helps the nurse gather richer information, understand the patient’s social support and values, and build rapport for patient-centered care. In contrast, a closed-ended question would restrict the response to a simple yes or no, reflective listening would involve restating or paraphrasing what was said to acknowledge feelings, and direct confrontation would challenge the patient. So this demonstrates an open-ended question.

Opening the conversation with an open-ended prompt invites the patient to share more details in their own words. “Tell me more about your grandchildren” requests a narrative rather than a yes/no answer, encouraging discussion of relationships, routines, feelings, and concerns. This helps the nurse gather richer information, understand the patient’s social support and values, and build rapport for patient-centered care. In contrast, a closed-ended question would restrict the response to a simple yes or no, reflective listening would involve restating or paraphrasing what was said to acknowledge feelings, and direct confrontation would challenge the patient. So this demonstrates an open-ended question.