A nurse is admitting a client to the mental health unit.

Exhibits

The nurse is developing a plan of care for the client. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include?

(Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Verbalizing disapproval of the client’s substance abuse is not therapeutic and can harm the nurse-client relationship. It may cause the client to feel judged and less likely to be open about their struggles, hindering the treatment process.

Choice B reason: While it is important to maintain professionalism, avoiding any emotional response can make the nurse seem distant and uncaring. A balance between empathy and professional detachment is necessary to build rapport and trust with the client.

Choice C reason: Maintaining a nonjudgmental attitude is essential in the therapeutic setting, especially during the initial interview at an alcohol treatment center. It helps to create a safe environment where the client feels respected and understood, which can facilitate openness and honesty about their issues with substance abuse.

Choice D reason: Offering sympathetic support is a positive approach, but it must be carefully balanced with professional boundaries. Sympathy can sometimes be mistaken for pity, which might not be empowering for the client. Empathy, which involves understanding and sharing the feelings of another, is generally more appropriate in a therapeutic setting.

Choice A Reason:

The statement "You are feeling very depressed. I felt the same way when I decided to leave my husband" is non-therapeutic because it shifts the focus from the client to the nurse. This response demonstrates sympathy rather than empathy. Sympathy involves sharing one's own experiences and feelings, which can make the client feel unheard and invalidated. The nurse's role is to provide support and understanding without making the conversation about themselves.

Choice B Reason:

The statement "I can understand you are feeling depressed. It was a difficult decision. I'll sit with you" is more therapeutic. It acknowledges the client's feelings and offers support without shifting the focus to the nurse. This response shows empathy by validating the client's emotions and providing a comforting presence.

Choice C Reason:

The statement "You seem depressed. It was a difficult decision to make. Would you like to talk about it?" is therapeutic as it recognizes the client's feelings and invites them to express their thoughts and emotions. This approach encourages open communication and helps the client feel understood and supported.

Choice D Reason:

The statement "I know this is a difficult time for you. Would you like medication for anxiety?" is also therapeutic. It acknowledges the client's emotional state and offers a practical solution to help manage their anxiety. This response shows empathy and provides an option for addressing the client's immediate needs.