A public health nurse is addressing community leaders at a forum about community improvement. The nurse should identify which of the following groups as being the fastest growing segment of the homeless population.

Choice A reason: Asking the client if they have been thinking about harming themselves is not the best response, as it may sound accusatory or judgmental. It may also make the client defensive or reluctant to share their feelings. The nurse should assess the client's suicide risk later, after establishing rapport and trust.

Choice B reason: Asking the client how long they have been feeling this way is not the most appropriate response, as it may imply that the nurse is more interested in the duration of the problem than the client's current situation. It may also suggest that the nurse expects the client to have a clear timeline of their feelings, which may not be the case.

Choice C reason: Telling the client to share what is going on with them right now is the best response, as it shows empathy and genuine interest in the client's perspective. It also invites the client to express their thoughts and emotions, and helps the nurse identify the factors that contribute to the client's sense of meaninglessness.

Choice D reason: Asking the client if they really think their life has no purpose is not a helpful response, as it may sound dismissive or sarcastic. It may also make the client feel invalidated or misunderstood, and reinforce their negative beliefs. The nurse should avoid challenging the client's statements, and instead explore the reasons behind them.

Choice A reason: Touching the hair of an African American client during an assessment does not demonstrate accurate cultural knowledge, as it may be considered disrespectful or intrusive. Hair is a sensitive and personal topic for many African Americans, who may have experienced discrimination or stigma based on their hair texture or style¹. The nurse should ask for permission before touching the client's hair and explain the purpose of the assessment.

Choice B reason: Offering to shake hands when meeting an Asian client of the opposite gender does not demonstrate accurate cultural knowledge, as it may be considered inappropriate or offensive. In some Asian cultures, physical contact between men and women who are not related or married is discouraged or prohibited². The nurse should observe the client's body language and follow the client's lead in greeting gestures.

Choice C reason: Maintaining eye contact when interviewing a Native American client does not demonstrate accurate cultural knowledge, as it may be considered rude or aggressive. In some Native American cultures, eye contact is a sign of disrespect or challenge, especially when talking to elders or authority figures³. The nurse should avoid direct eye contact and use a respectful tone of voice when interviewing the client.

Choice D reason: Including both hot and cold food items on a Hispanic client's menu demonstrates accurate cultural knowledge, as it reflects the concept of balance and harmony in Hispanic culture. Many Hispanics believe that health and illness are influenced by the balance between hot and cold forces in the body and the environment⁴. The nurse should respect the client's food preferences and beliefs and provide a variety of food options.