A nurse is assessing a client's level of anxiety and coping mechanisms. Which statement by the nurse is appropriate during the assessment?

Choice A rationale:

Asking the client about their favorite hobbies is an appropriate statement during the assessment. This open-ended question encourages the client to talk about positive and enjoyable aspects of their life, providing insight into their interests and potential sources of relaxation. It also helps build rapport and trust between the nurse and the client.

Choice B rationale:

Advising the client to avoid anxiety-inducing situations oversimplifies anxiety management. Avoidance can reinforce anxiety and prevent the client from developing effective coping strategies. Encouraging gradual exposure to manageable stressors is often a more helpful approach.

Choice C rationale:

Asking "Why do you feel this way?" can be perceived as confrontational and may put the client on the defensive. It might hinder open communication and prevent the client from fully expressing their feelings. Instead, using more open-ended and nonjudgmental questions is recommended.

Choice D rationale:

Minimizing anxiety by stating that "Anxiety is not a big deal, everyone feels it sometimes" is dismissive of the client's emotions. It invalidates their experience and fails to acknowledge the impact anxiety may have on their well-being. Providing empathy and understanding is crucial in therapeutic communication.

Choice C rationale:

Responding with empathy and validation, such as acknowledging the client's concerns about starting therapy, is appropriate communication. It demonstrates the nurse's understanding of the client's feelings and helps establish a supportive and trusting relationship. Many individuals with anxiety disorder have reservations about therapy, and addressing their concerns can alleviate some of their apprehensions.

Choice A rationale:

Suggesting that "Therapy won't really help, but you should try it anyway" is discouraging and undermines the potential benefits of therapy. It may lead to decreased motivation and engagement in the therapeutic process.

Choice B rationale:

Instructing the client to solely rely on medications oversimplifies treatment and disregards the potential effectiveness of therapy and other coping strategies. Medications can be a part of the treatment plan, but a comprehensive approach is usually recommended.

Choice D rationale:

Advising the client to rely on friends and family for support instead of seeking professional help minimizes the importance of therapeutic interventions. While social support is valuable, it is not a substitute for evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorder.