Question

question 32 of 75

a client who has been admitted to the psychiatric unit tells the nurse, \my problems are so bad that no one can help me.\
which response is best for the nurse to make?

how can i help?
things probably arent as bad as they seem right now.
lets talk about what is right with your life.
i hear how miserable you are, but things will get better soon.

Explanation:

Analyze the client's statement

The client expresses feelings of hopelessness and helplessness: "My problems are so bad that no one can help me."

Evaluate the communication options

• "How can I help?": This is an open-ended, therapeutic response that offers help, shows availability, and invites the client to collaborate on finding solutions without minimizing their feelings.
• "Things probably aren't as bad as they seem right now.": This minimizes the client's feelings and offers false reassurance.
• "Let's talk about what is right with your life.": This changes the subject, dismisses the client's current distress, and avoids addressing their immediate feelings.
• "I hear how miserable you are, but things will get better soon.": The second half of this statement offers false reassurance and minimizes the client's current state.

Select the best therapeutic response

The first option is the most therapeutic because it is open-ended, non-judgmental, and directly addresses the client's statement by offering assistance.

Answer:

• (A) How can I help? (Correct answer)
• (B) Things probably aren't as bad as they seem right now.
• (C) Let's talk about what is right with your life.
• (D) I hear how miserable you are, but things will get better soon.