A client who is terminally ill tells a nurse on the medical-surgical unit that she feels hopeless. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?

Rationale:

A. Identifying changes within the family unit can be important but is not the immediate priority for medical stabilization.

B. Gaining weight is a critical goal for clients with anorexia nervosa to address their physical health and nutritional status.

C. Making positive statements about body image is helpful but secondary to the goal of weight gain.

D. Feeling in control of behavior is important for long-term recovery but is not the immediate priority compared to physical health.

Rationale:

A. "I am sure these feelings will pass once you go home." is dismissive and does not address the client's current emotional state.

B. "Tell me what you understand about your illness." opens up a dialogue for the client to express their feelings and concerns, which can help in assessing their emotional state and providing support.

C. "Tell me why you feel hopeless." might be too direct and could make the client feel pressured.

D. "If I were you, I would ask for a referral to hospice care." could be perceived as judgmental and does not address the client’s immediate feelings of hopelessness.