Evolve HESI Practice Exam

A 9-year-old Vietnamese child's mother avoids eye contact during conversation. What should the nurse do?

1. Encourage the mother to make eye contact

2. Continue asking her questions about her child

3. Assume she is uninterested in the discussion

4. Limit questions to only essential medical history

The correct answer is: Continue asking her questions about her child

Continuing to ask questions about the child is the most appropriate response in this scenario. Cultural differences can significantly influence non-verbal communication, such as eye contact. In some Asian cultures, including Vietnamese culture, avoiding direct eye contact can be a sign of respect or deference, particularly in a parent-child dynamic. By proceeding with the conversation and asking questions, the nurse demonstrates understanding and respect for the cultural context, ensuring that the mother feels comfortable sharing vital information about her child’s health. This approach fosters a supportive environment where the mother may feel more at ease, potentially encouraging her to engage further in the discussion. This option also recognizes the mother's possible reluctance to engage in direct eye contact as a cultural trait rather than a lack of interest in the conversation. Other options may lead to misunderstandings or discomfort in the interaction, which is why they are less suitable in this context.