A young client tells the nurse that the client's spouse died 3 months ago, and the client is feeling alone and vulnerable. Which statement indicates that the client's coping skills are adequate?

When a client has an angry outburst and then quickly appears calmer and receptive to input from the nurse, it is important for the nurse to address the underlying cause of the outburst and explore the client's feelings and emotions. By asking, "What happened that got you so upset?", the nurse is inviting the client to express their feelings and share what triggered their anger. This can help the nurse understand the client's perspective, provide appropriate support, and potentially de-escalate any remaining tension or frustration.

The other options are inappropriate because:

A- "We will have to talk about this later." This response may make the client feel dismissed or that their feelings are not being heard or understood.

C- "You really scared me. I'm glad you are okay." While this response acknowledges the client's emotional state, it centers the focus on the nurse's feelings rather than exploring the client's perspective or emotions.

D- "Your behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated." This response is confrontational and judgmental, which can escalate the situation and potentially trigger further defensive reactions from the client.

Overall, a non-judgmental and empathetic approach that focuses on understanding the client's feelings and experiences is more likely to foster open communication and provide the client with a safe space to express themselves.

This is the best response because it acknowledges the client’s statement while providing realistic, evidence-based information. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and domestic violence research, the period immediately after leaving an abusive partner is often the most dangerous, as abusers may escalate threats or violence when they feel a loss of control. This response validates the client’s concerns, offers safety awareness, and opens the door for further discussion about creating a safety plan.

option B generalizes that all batterers never change, which may not be true for all situations and individuals.

Option C suggeststhat leaving will make the partner change is inappropriate and unsafe. This could give the client false hope that the abuser’s behavior will improve, when evidence shows that abusive partners rarely change without intensive intervention.

Option D may imply a threat or ultimatum, which is not appropriate and can be disempowering for the client. The most important aspect of supporting someone in an abusive relationship is to provide a non-judgmental, understanding, and empowering environment where they can explore their options and make decisions that are best for their safety and well-being.