Practice Question
A nurse is caring for a client in an inpatient mental health unit. The client states, "I don't know how I can keep going." Which response by the nurse is the most appropriate?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
"You are having a hard time. Would you like to talk about it?"
Rationale:
💎Therapeutic communication begins with empathy and an open invitation to share, which this response provides.
💎It validates feelings (“you are having a hard time”) while inviting exploration, supporting assessment of risk, stressors, and coping.
💎The wording is nonjudgmental and non-directive, reducing defensiveness and fostering trust/rapport.
💎It avoids minimization of distress and “why” questions, which can feel accusatory and shut down disclosure.
💎This approach aligns with client-centered care, enabling the nurse to assess safety and collaborate on next steps.
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This question is from Custom NSG 2320 Mental Health Exam 1 Fall 2025 which contains 45 questions.
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From Exam
Custom NSG 2320 Mental Health Exam 1 Fall 2025
45 Questions
View Full Exam Start PracticingQuestion Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN ATI Mental Health
- Answer Choices: 4