A recently widowed client becomes tearful at a routine clinic visit and states, "I just can't get over my spouse's death." Which of the following responses by the nurse are appropriate? Select all that apply.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The practices, needs, and experiences of grief vary greatly among individuals. Nurses caring for grieving clients must skillfully use therapeutic communication techniques to strengthen the nurse-client relationship and support clients in exploring emotions and experiences. Reflection (eg, acknowledging client statements) and using open-ended questions or statements assist the client in exploring emotions and allow for expression of needs (Option D). Nurses may also suggest strategies and share resources (eg, support group) to facilitate the client's grieving process (Option E). (Option A) Presuming to understand another individual's grief based on personal experience is not a therapeutic communication technique as it diminishes the experiences and emotions of the client. (Option B) Clients expressing strong emotions may need time to collect themselves before continuing a discussion. However, leaving the room when a client's emotions are heightened may imply that the client's expression is inappropriate or unacceptable. The nurse should remain with the client and may use therapeutic silence or touch to show support. (Option C) Automatic or cliché responses (eg, it takes time to deal with losses) are nontherapeutic as they limit discussion and expression of the client's experience and emotion. Educational objective: Nurses should use therapeutic communication techniques (eg, reflecting, asking open-ended questions, suggesting strategies or resources) to support clients' psychosocial needs and build the nurse-client relationship. Minimization, automatic responses, and leaving clients who are sharing strong emotions are nontherapeutic actions.

A Recently Widowed Client Becomes Tearful at a Routine Clinic