A nurse observes that a client is sitting alone in her room crying. As the nurse approaches, she states, "I'm feeling really down and don't want to talk to anyone right now." Which of the following responses is appropriate for the nurse?

"It might help you feel better if you talk about it."

“Why are you feeling so down?"

“I just sit here with you for a few minutes then."

"I understand. I've felt like that before, too."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

The appropriate response for the nurse in this situation would be: "I'll just sit here with you for a few minutes then."
This response acknowledges the client's expressed desire not to talk and respects their boundaries. It shows support and presence by offering companionship without pressuring the client to discuss their feelings. The nurse's willingness to sit with the client demonstrates empathy and provides a sense of comfort and reassurance.
The other options are not as appropriate:

1.   "It might help you feel better if you talk about it." This response disregards the client's stated preference not to talk and may create a sense of pressure or intrusiveness. It is important to respect the client's autonomy and readiness to share their feelings.
2.   "Why are you feeling so down?" This response directly asks the client to explain their feelings, which they have already indicated they do not want to discuss. It can be seen as intrusive and may make the client feel uncomfortable or defensive.
3.   "I understand. I've felt like that before, too." While empathy is important, this response brings the focus back to the nurse's own experiences, potentially diverting the attention from the client. It is important for the nurse to remain focused on the client's needs and create a supportive environment for them to express their feelings if they choose to do so.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Leaving the child's room exactly as it was before the loss suggests that the client is unable to accept and adapt to the reality of the child's death. This behavior can be considered maladaptive because it hinders the process of mourning and moving forward. It may reflect a difficulty in accepting the loss and adjusting to life without the child.

The other actions mentioned in the options are not necessarily indicative of maladaptive grieving:

B. Visiting the child's grave every week: Visiting the child's grave can be a normal part of the grieving process for some individuals. It provides an opportunity for the client to remember and honor the child's memory.

C. Talking about the child in the past tense: It is common for individuals to talk about a deceased loved one in the past tense. This does not necessarily indicate maladaptive grieving. It is a way of acknowledging the loss and recognizing that the person is no longer physically present.

D. Volunteering at a local children's hospital: Engaging in volunteer work can be a positive coping mechanism for individuals who have experienced a loss. It allows them to find meaning, connection, and a sense of purpose through helping others.

A. "It must be very difficult for you to see your wife in pain." B. "We're doing everything we can to keep your wife comfortable." C. "I wish there was more that I could do to relieve your wife's pain, too." D. "I'm sure your wife will begin to feel better soon."

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The appropriate response for the nurse in this situation is to acknowledge the partner's concern and empathize with their feelings. By stating, "It must be very difficult for you to see your wife in pain," the nurse acknowledges the partner's emotions and shows understanding and empathy. This response validates the partner's feelings and demonstrates support and compassion.

B- "We're doing everything we can to keep your wife comfortable" may be a true statement, but it does not directly address the partner's expressed wish to do something to help. It may not fully address the emotional aspect of the partner's statement.

C- "I wish there was more that I could do to relieve your wife's pain, too" is a genuine response that expresses empathy. It acknowledges the partner's desire to help and implies that the nurse shares the same sentiment. This response shows understanding and support.

D- "I'm sure your wife will begin to feel better soon" dismisses the partner's concern and does not address their expressed wish to alleviate their wife's pain. It may not fully acknowledge the partner's emotions or provide the support they need in that moment.

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A nurse observes that a client is sitting alone in her room crying. As the nurse approaches, she states, "I'm feeling really down and don't want to talk to anyone right now." Which of the following responses is appropriate for the nurse?

Nursing Test Bank

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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