A client who has diabetes mellitus is admitted to the hospital for a foot ulcer. The client tells the nurse that they have been feeling depressed and hopeless about their condition. Which of the following responses by the nurse demonstrates therapeutic communication?

The nurse uses an appropriate statement that acknowledges the client's pain and explores its impact on their quality of life and coping strategies. This helps to assess the client's physical, emotional, and social needs, as well as provide support and education.

Incorrect options:

A) "You seem to be in pain. Would you like some medication?" - This is an inappropriate statement that assumes that the client wants medication without assessing their pain level, preference, or history of medication use.

B) "How long have you had rheumatoid arthritis? What treatments have you tried?" - This is an inappropriate statement that ignores the client's pain and continues with the interview without addressing their comfort or needs.

C) "Let's take a break from the interview. I will come back later when you are feeling better." - This is an inappropriate statement that terminates the interview prematurely and may make the client feel dismissed or abandoned.

The nurse demonstrates therapeutic communication by using an open-ended statement that invites the client to express their feelings and concerns. The nurse also shows empathy, respect, and genuineness by offering to listen attentively.

Incorrect options:

A) "You should be more optimistic. Things could be worse." - This is a nontherapeutic response that minimizes the client's feelings and implies that the client is wrong or ungrateful for feeling depressed and hopeless.

B) "Why do you feel depressed and hopeless? You have a lot to live for." - This is a nontherapeutic response that uses a closed-ended question that can make the client feel defensive or guilty for feeling depressed and hopeless. The nurse also makes an assumption about the client's life without exploring their perspective.

C) "I understand how you feel. I have a family member who has diabetes too." - This is a nontherapeutic response that uses false reassurance and self-disclosure that can shift the focus away from the client and their feelings.