A nurse is using the NURSE mnemonic when speaking with a client who is experiencing grief. The client reports that they are feeling overwhelmed. Which of the following responses by the nurse demonstrates the "E” in the NURSE mnemonic?

A) "Would you like to talk about your concerns?": This response acknowledges the client's feelings and offers support and an opportunity to discuss their concerns further. It respects the client's autonomy and allows them to express their thoughts and feelings about the situation.
B) "Why don't you want to tell your partner your diagnosis?": This response may come across as confrontational and judgmental, potentially making the client feel defensive. It does not facilitate open communication or address the client's concerns in a supportive manner.
C) "If I were you, I would tell my partner.": This response imposes the nurse's values and beliefs on the client, which may not be helpful or appropriate. It undermines the client's autonomy and decision-making process.
D) "Most people find it helpful to talk to their partner.": While this statement may be true for some individuals, it assumes that the client's situation is the same as others and does not take into account the client's unique circumstances and preferences. It does not encourage open dialogue or address the client's concerns directly.

A. Disenfranchised grief:
Disenfranchised grief occurs when the loss experienced by an individual is not openly acknowledged or socially supported. This type of grief may occur when the relationship with the deceased is not recognized or valued by others, such as in the case of a non-traditional relationship. In this scenario, the client's grief is acknowledged but persists beyond what is considered a typical mourning period, suggesting a different type of grief.

B. Anticipatory grief:
Anticipatory grief occurs when individuals experience feelings of loss before the actual loss or death occurs. This often happens in situations where death is expected due to a terminal illness. Since the client's partner has already died, anticipatory grief does not apply in this case.

C. Prolonged grief:
This is the correct answer. Prolonged grief, also known as complicated grief, occurs when the grieving process persists over an extended period, beyond what is considered typical or socially acceptable. Individuals experiencing prolonged grief may have difficulty accepting the reality of the loss and may continue to experience intense emotions related to the loss for an extended period, often interfering with their daily functioning.

D. Uncomplicated grief:
Uncomplicated grief refers to a normal and typical response to loss that typically resolves over time. While grief is a natural response to loss, uncomplicated grief does not persist for an extended period or significantly impair the individual's ability to function in their daily life. In this scenario, the client's continued inability to accept the loss suggests that the grief may be more complex than uncomplicated grief.