A nurse in a mental health facility is contributing to the plan of care for a new client. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to include in the working phase of the nurse-client relationship?

Choice A reason: This response shifts the focus from the client to the nurse, which is not therapeutic in this context. The client needs the opportunity to express their own feelings and experiences rather than hearing about the nurse's personal history. It is important for the nurse to remain professional and centered on the client's needs during conversations about grief and depression.

Choice B reason: Encouraging the client to start participating in usual activities might be premature, especially if they are not ready. Grief is a process that takes time, and clients need to move at their own pace. Instead, it is more supportive to listen and validate their current feelings rather than pushing them to resume normal activities too soon.

Choice C reason: Saying that "everyone feels depressed during the grieving process" can invalidate the client's unique experience and feelings. While it is true that grief is common after a loss, the intensity and way it manifests can vary greatly among individuals. This response may come across as dismissive, implying that the client's feelings are not important or unique.

Choice D reason: Asking the client to talk about their relationship with their partner is a therapeutic approach. This response invites the client to share their memories and feelings, which can help in processing their grief. It shows empathy and provides a safe space for the client to express their emotions, fostering a supportive and healing environment.

Choice A reason: This statement is an indication of countertransference because the nurse is projecting personal feelings and experiences onto the client. By comparing the client to their parent who struggled with drinking, the nurse may unconsciously treat the client differently based on unresolved emotions or past experiences. Countertransference can interfere with the nurse's ability to provide objective and compassionate care.

Choice B reason: This statement reflects a judgment about the client's responsibility for their drinking but does not indicate countertransference. While it is important for clients to take responsibility for their actions, this statement does not involve the nurse projecting their own feelings or experiences onto the client. It is more about the nurse's perspective on the client's behavior.

Choice C reason: This statement describes an inappropriate boundary violation by the client but does not indicate countertransference on the part of the nurse. The nurse should address the boundary issue professionally, but this situation does not involve the nurse's personal feelings or experiences influencing their perception of the client.

Choice D reason: This statement is a factual observation about the client's behavior during group therapy and does not indicate countertransference. It reflects the client's willingness to share their feelings, which is a positive aspect of their therapy process. There is no evidence of the nurse's personal feelings or experiences affecting their assessment of the client.