Which response by the nurse best conveys empathy to the client?

D. It acknowledges the client's emotions by expressing empathy ("I am sad for you") and offering support ("I'll stay with you for a while if you need to talk"). This approach validates the client's grief, acknowledges the significance of their loss, and offers the opportunity for the client to express their feelings if they choose to do so.

A. This can inadvertently minimize the client's grief by suggesting that the nurse's losses are comparable or that the nurse understands the client's emotions completely.

B. It does not acknowledge or validate the client's current emotions and may overlook the complex feelings associated with losing a parent.

C. This response, although intended to provide encouragement, may not be therapeutic in the context of immediate grief. It suggests a future positive outcome from the loss without acknowledging the client's current emotional pain.

B. This is the best response. It demonstrates empathy, active listening, and a willingness to understand the client's emotions. By inviting the client to express their feelings further, the nurse creates an opportunity for therapeutic communication and can better assess how to support the client emotionally.

A. This response dismisses the client's feelings of anger and sadness and may come across as minimizing their emotions. It does not acknowledge the client's current state of distress or provide validation for their feelings.

C. This response expresses empathy and acknowledges the client's feelings, which is important. However, it may seem somewhat passive and could benefit from further exploration or invitation for the client to elaborate on their feelings.

D. This response is dismissive and judgmental. It may make the client feel invalidated or criticized for expressing their emotions, which can further escalate feelings of anger or distress.