A nurse is assisting with the admission of an older adult client to an acute care facility. The client states that they are afraid to go to sleep, fearing they will not wake up. Which of the following is a therapeutic response the nurse should make?

The correct answer is choice B: "Please don't tell my doctor, but I am taking my partner's oxycodone."

Choice B rationale:

This statement presents an ethical dilemma as it reveals the client's engagement in potentially harmful and illegal behavior – taking a controlled substance prescribed for someone else. The nurse must balance the duty to respect the client's confidentiality with the responsibility to address potential harm to the client and others involved.

Choice A rationale:

"I might file a lawsuit because of how my surgery went" does not present an ethical dilemma, but rather a legal concern. While the nurse should listen to the client's complaints and provide appropriate support, this statement is more related to the client's dissatisfaction with their medical care.

Choice C rationale:

"Please don't get me out of bed this morning, It hurts too much" reflects a client's pain management request. While pain management is important, this statement doesn't raise an ethical dilemma on its own. It's within the scope of care to address pain and comfort concerns.

Choice D rationale:

"I don't want to take my medicine. It makes me sick to my stomach" highlights a client's concern about medication side effects. While addressing medication concerns is essential, this statement doesn't inherently pose an ethical dilemma.

The correct answer is choice D: A client who has just experienced the death of their child.

Choice A rationale:

Offering silence to a client who plans to leave the facility against medical advice might not be the most appropriate therapeutic communication technique. Silence in this situation could be misconstrued as ignoring the client's concerns or not addressing their reasons for wanting to leave. Active listening and open-ended questioning would likely be more effective in understanding and addressing the client's concerns.

Choice B rationale:

A client who informs the nurse that they have made their funeral arrangements is expressing thoughts and emotions that might require sensitive communication. Silence in this context could be interpreted as neglecting the client's need for support and empathy. The nurse should engage in a compassionate conversation and encourage the client to share their feelings.

Choice C rationale:

For a client who tells the nurse that the night shift nurse did not bring their medication, silence would not be the most suitable response. This situation calls for clarification and action, as the nurse needs to address the medication discrepancy promptly. Engaging in open communication and resolving the issue is essential here.

Choice D rationale:

A client who has just experienced the death of their child is likely overwhelmed with grief and intense emotions. In this scenario, using the therapeutic communication technique of silence can provide the client with a supportive space to process their feelings. Offering a moment of silence acknowledges the depth of their emotions and gives them the opportunity to express themselves when they are ready.