A nurse is caring for a client who lost their child 6 months ago. The client states, "Not only do I miss my child, but I also feel so distant from my partner." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. "I do not see myself attending community support groups": This indicates resistance to accepting the diagnosis. Participation in community support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, is often an important part of treatment and recovery for alcohol use disorder.
B. "My drinking isn't as bad as everyone says it is.": This statement reflects denial, a common defense mechanism in individuals with alcohol use disorder. It shows a lack of acceptance and an unwillingness to acknowledge the severity of the problem.
C. "My family has a history of alcohol use disorder": This indicates acceptance of the diagnosis as the client is acknowledging the familial connection and potential genetic predisposition to alcohol use disorder. It shows insight into the condition and a willingness to consider its impact.
D. "I was diagnosed because my spouse is upset about my drinking": This statement shifts the responsibility for the diagnosis onto the spouse and does not show acceptance of the disorder. It suggests that the client may not fully accept the diagnosis as their own issue.

Rationale for correct choices:

• Cognition: The client’s cognition is intact, indicating that alcohol withdrawal symptoms have resolved and the client is no longer experiencing significant cognitive impairment. This reflects positive progress in recovery and stabilization.
• Client resolves to limit alcohol consumption: The client expresses a desire to limit alcohol consumption and has expressed fear of using alcohol again. This willingness to take responsibility for their recovery indicates progress toward healthier coping mechanisms.
• Movement through the stages of grief: The client is showing progress in working through their grief, transitioning from guilt to sadness. This indicates emotional processing and movement through the stages of grief, which is important for healing and recovery.
• Participation in group therapy: The client is attending group therapy twice daily and participating in conversations. Active participation in therapy shows engagement with the recovery process and willingness to work through their issues with support.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Appetite: There is no information provided in the notes or vital signs about the client's appetite. While appetite may improve over time, it is not explicitly mentioned here, and the focus should be on more direct recovery indicators.
• Vital signs: While the vital signs have stabilized since admission, these factors are more indicative of physical recovery rather than progress in the treatment plan. The other findings are stronger indicators of the client’s emotional and psychological progress in recovery.