The client is talking to the nurse about recent health problems of immediate family members and the strain the client has been under trying to care for them. The client begins to cry between sentences. What response by the nurse demonstrates the most empathy?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This response allows the client to collect the thoughts while also expressing emotion, and it lets the client know the nurse is there for the client. Using appropriate periods of silence rather than "talking away," the client's feelings is empathetic. "I know how you feel" does not focus on the client's feelings. Stating "It's okay to cry" or "Take some time for yourself" are statements that indicate the need for the client to seek approval in order to experience the client's own feelings.

The Client Is Talking to the Nurse About Recent Health