A nurse is caring for an older adult client who had a cerebrovascular accident and has right-sided paralysis and aphasia. The client's son tells the nurse it is his fault because he did not insist that his mother live with him. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A Reason:

Helping the patient to identify personal strengths and limitations is appropriate. This helps build a positive foundation for the therapeutic relationship by focusing on the patient's strengths and empowering them in the process.

Choice B Reason:

Explore, in depth, the problems faced by the patient is inappropriate. While understanding the patient's concerns is important, diving too deeply into problems at the beginning might be overwhelming. It's often more effective to gradually explore issues as trust is established.

Choice C Reason:

Clarifying how long the relationship will last is inappropriate. Specifying the duration of the therapeutic relationship may create anxiety for the patient. Therapeutic relationships are often open-ended, and discussing termination should occur at an appropriate time in the future.

Choice D Reason:

Reviewing the terms of confidentiality is appropriate. Clarifying the terms of confidentiality is important to establish trust and inform the patient about the boundaries of the therapeutic relationship.

Choice E Reason:

Helping the patient prioritize and revise ineffective coping behaviors is appropriate. Collaboratively working with the patient to identify and address ineffective coping behaviors is a therapeutic intervention that supports the patient in their journey toward improved mental health.

Choice A Reason:

"I pray when I begin to breathe fast". This technique is inappropriate. Using prayer as a coping mechanism can provide emotional support and a sense of comfort for many individuals.

Choice B Reason:

"Exercise when my neck is tense". This technique is inappropriate. Physical activity, such as exercise, is a well-established and effective stress management technique, promoting the release of endorphins and reducing muscle tension.

Choice C Reason:

"Journal when I find it difficult to talk". This technique is inappropriate. Writing in a journal can be a therapeutic way to express thoughts and emotions, providing an outlet for self-reflection and stress reduction.

Choice D Reason:

"Fix myself a pot of coffee when I get anxious" This technique is appropriate. The least effective stress management technique among the options is fixing oneself a pot of coffee. While caffeine might provide a temporary boost in alertness and mood, excessive consumption of caffeinated beverages, especially during times of anxiety, can contribute to increased heart rate, restlessness, and may exacerbate feelings of anxiety. In the long run, relying on caffeine as a coping mechanism may not be the healthiest or most effective approach to managing stress.