An older client begins to cry when talking about the death of a daughter 20 years ago. Which response should the nurse make?
1. Assess the client for depression.
2. Touch the client's arm and listen in silence.
3. Ask the client to describe the details of the death.
4. Leave the client alone so they can cry.
2. Touch the client's arm and listen in silence.
Explanation: 1. Assessing the client for depression could give the client the impression that the expression of feelings of grief is not normal or healthy.
2. Attentive listening is the key to effective communication, and the most appropriate response is to demonstrate empathy and support for the client in the expression of strong feelings. Crying can be therapeutic to the older client and offers release from persistent feelings of sadness.
3. Asking the client to describe the details of the death would not support the client's needs at this time.
4. Crying is an effective means to express emotions, but leaving them alone would not be a supportive action.
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