A client has just lost her second baby to preterm complications. Which statement demonstrates the best therapeutic response for the nurse to make?
1. "Don't be so sad. You can always try again."
2. "Didn't your doctor advise you about genetic counseling?"
3. "I know how you feel. I have children of my own."
4. "I am so sad for you. I'll stay with you for a while if you need to talk."
Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: The client's feelings must be validated, not dismissed.
Rationale 2: Asking about genetic counseling implies that the client could have done something to possibly prevent this situation.
Rationale 3: Therapeutic communication promotes understanding and is client directed. Nurses need to respond to the feelings expressed by the client. The nurse has no way of knowing how this client feels, and saying so is just insensitive.
Rationale 4: Therapeutic communication promotes understanding and is client directed. Nurses need to respond to the feelings expressed by the client. Sometimes clients need time to deal with their feelings and the best thing the nurse can provide is presence and listening.
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