How can a nurse therapeutically respond to an anxious adult patient? (Select all that apply.)

Providing good eye contact is an important aspect of therapeutic communication, as it helps to establish a connection between the nurse and the patient. Good eye contact can convey attentiveness and empathy, which are essential when addressing an anxious adult patient. It allows the patient to feel acknowledged and supported. Additionally, it encourages open communication and can help the patient feel more comfortable expressing their concerns and feelings.

When interacting with an anxious patient, maintaining eye contact can help build trust and rapport, making the patient feel more secure in discussing their anxiety. It also demonstrates that the nurse is fully present and engaged in the conversation, which can help to ease the patient's anxiety and encourage a more supportive environment.

Other strategies such as demonstrating a calm presence and spending time attentively with the patient also play crucial roles in therapeutic communication. While assuring the patient that all will be well may be well-intentioned, it is not always deemed therapeutic unless it is based on realistic outcomes, as it may unintentionally minimize the patient's feelings or concerns.