A nurse is assessing a client who has multiple injuries from a motor vehicle crash as a result of driving while under the influence of alcohol. The client tells the nurse," I had a few drinks after my boss fired me, but it's okay. Everything will work out somehow next week." Which of the following defense mechanisms is the client demonstrating?

This response reflects active listening and demonstrates empathy towards the client's feelings. It acknowledges the client's distress and encourages them to express their concerns and thoughts. By actively listening and showing genuine interest, the nurse can gather more information to assess the client's needs and determine the appropriate course of action.

Let's discuss why the other options are incorrect:

A. "Everything will be okay until morning. You can speak with your provider then." This response may dismiss or invalidate the client's current distress and fails to address their immediate concerns. It suggests waiting until morning without exploring the reasons behind the client's urgency.

C. "Go back to your room, and I'll try to get in touch with your provider in the morning." While the intention may be to offer assistance, this response does not address the client's emotional state or explore the reasons for their demand to see the provider. It may also not address the client's immediate needs and concerns.

D. "Why don't you wait until the morning? The provider will be available then." This response may come across as dismissive and may not acknowledge the client's current distress. It does not encourage the client to express their concerns or provide an opportunity for open communication.

Building trust and rapport with a suspicious client takes time and consistency. By setting aside short, frequent times each day to spend with the client, the nurse demonstrates reliability, availability, and a commitment to the client's well-being. This approach allows the client to gradually develop trust and feel more comfortable interacting with the nurse.

The other options are not appropriate actions:

A. Waiting for the client to initiate interactions with the nurse may result in limited or no engagement, as the client's suspicion may hinder their willingness to reach out. It is important for the nurse to take an active role in building the therapeutic relationship.

C. Disclosing personal information to the client is not recommended. The nurse should maintain professional boundaries and focus on the client's needs and concerns rather than sharing personal details that may compromise the therapeutic relationship or create an imbalance of power.

D. Telling the client that he reminds the nurse of her father may inadvertently trigger the client's suspicious thoughts and reinforce their mistrust. Making such personal comparisons is not appropriate and can hinder the establishment of a therapeutic relationship. It is important to focus on the client's individual experiences and needs rather than making personal connections.