The nurse talks with a client who is a widower of six years and who misses his wife. What is the best statement by the nurse to encourage the client to express his feelings?

This is because a client with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may have periods of apnea lasting more than 10 seconds during sleep, which can lead to hypoxia and hypercapnia. These conditions can cause the client to be difficult to arouse and may indicate respiratory failure.

The nurse should take immediate action to stimulate the client, provide oxygen, and call for help.

Choice B is wrong because blood pressure 142/92 mmHg is not an emergency for a client with OSA. It is within the stage 1 hypertension range, which may be caused by OSA or other factors. The nurse should monitor the client’s blood pressure and encourage lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss, exercise, and dietary changes.

Choice C is wrong because apneic periods lasting more than 10 seconds are expected in a client with OSA. This is the criterion for diagnosing OSA during a sleep study. The nurse should educate the client about the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or other treatments to prevent apnea and improve oxygenation during sleep.

Choice D is wrong because oxygen desaturation to 90% when asleep is not an emergency for a client with OSA. It is a common finding in OSA due to the intermittent obstruction of the upper airway. The nurse should ensure that the client has supplemental oxygen available and teach the client about the benefits of CPAP or other devices to maintain airway patency and oxygen saturation during sleep.

What has it been like for you since your wife died? This statement shows empathy and invites the client to share his feelings and experiences.

It also acknowledges the client’s loss and validates his grief.

Choice A. Tell me how your wife died.

This statement is too intrusive and may cause the client to feel uncomfortable or defensive. It also focuses on the past event rather than the present situation.

Choice B. Have you considered attending a grief group? This statement is too premature and may imply that the nurse is trying to solve the client’s problem or dismiss his feelings.

It also assumes that the client needs or wants a grief group.

Choice D. You have wonderful children and grandchildren who are very supportive.

This statement is too superficial and may minimize the client’s grief or make him feel guilty. It also shifts the attention away from the client and his wife.