Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 75%
Simulated
The nurse is caring for a client who has been the victim of intimate partner violence. During the interview, the nurse feels angry. embarrassed, and helpless. Which explanation best describes the cause of the nurse's emotions?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The emotions of anger, embarrassment, and helplessness are common countertransference reactions that can stem from a subconscious judgment of the client's situation, including frustration or blame towards the victim for not leaving the abusive partner. While a personal history of abuse (C) could cause strong emotions, the specific feelings described are more universally linked to the frustration of the cycle of violence from an external perspective. Limited experience (A) might cause anxiety or uncertainty, not this specific emotional triad, and difficulty accepting the client's story (D) would likely lead to suspicion or disbelief rather than helplessness.