A client has made the decision to leave her alcoholic husband and reports feeling very depressed. Which of the following is a non-therapeutic statement by the nurse that demonstrates sympathy?

Choice A rationale:

This statement requires intervention by the charge nurse. The nurse is making a judgmental suggestion to the client about how they should approach their marital issues. The nurse's role is to provide support, empathy, and open-ended questions that allow the client to explore their feelings and thoughts. Making a directive statement like this can be perceived as controlling and dismissive of the client's feelings.

Choice B rationale:

Relationship difficulties being stressful and requiring effort to resolve is an appropriate and empathetic response from the nurse. This acknowledges the client's struggles and offers validation without imposing a particular solution.

Choice C rationale:

Developing a plan for communication is a constructive approach that helps the client address their concerns. This response is within the nurse's scope of practice and promotes problem-solving and effective communication between partners.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the client to share more about their concerns regarding their marriage is a therapeutic response. It shows active listening and facilitates the client's exploration of their feelings, which is an essential aspect of the nursing role in a therapeutic relationship.

The correct answers are choices B and D: "Offer ideas for ways to distract or redirect the client." and "Educate the spouse about the availability of adult care as a respite."

Choice A rationale:

Suggesting a long-term care facility should not be the first action. Early-stage Alzheimer's clients can often remain at home with proper support, and suggesting institutionalization might not be appropriate at this stage.

Choice B rationale:

This is a correct choice. Engaging the client with Alzheimer's in activities that distract or redirect their focus can be helpful. This approach can alleviate the spouse's concerns and provide some relief from exhaustion.

Choice C rationale:

While discussing dementia care options with the spouse is important, it might not directly address the spouse's current exhaustion and feelings of helplessness.

Choice D rationale:

This is a correct choice. Educating the spouse about adult care options for respite can provide much-needed breaks for the caregiver. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be emotionally and physically draining, so respite care can offer temporary relief.

Choice E rationale:

Suggesting anti-anxiety drugs for the spouse is not the best first action. While addressing caregiver stress is important, suggesting medication should come after considering other supportive measures.