A nurse is caring for a client who states, "Things will never work out." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. Appetite:
The client has a good appetite, which is a positive sign of progress. A healthy appetite can indicate the resolution of some symptoms related to alcohol withdrawal, as well as an improvement in the client’s general health and nutrition. It also suggests that the client is physically stabilizing and no longer experiencing significant nausea or gastrointestinal issues that are common in alcohol withdrawal.
B. Movement through the stages of grief:
The client has accepted the news about their parents' death and is moving through the stages of grief.
This is a significant step in emotional healing and demonstrates psychological progress. Acceptance of
the loss is a positive indicator of the client’s ability to cope with the bereavement, which is important for
long-term recovery, particularly given that grief and emotional stress contributed to the relapse.
C. Cognition:
While cognitive status is important, there is no direct evidence presented that the client's cognition is specifically improving in this case. The nurses' notes do not mention any cognitive deficits or assessments directly related to cognition, and there are no significant changes to indicate cognitive improvement. This would require further assessment to determine if cognitive function is indeed progressing.
D. Participation in group therapy:
Participation in group therapy is another key indicator of progress. Group therapy is an essential part of recovery for clients with alcohol use disorder, providing a supportive environment where clients can share their experiences and receive feedback from others. The fact that the client is attending group therapy shows engagement in their treatment plan and is likely helping the client with social support and recovery-focused education.
E. Client resolves to limit alcohol consumption:
The client has resolved to limit alcohol consumption, which is a clear and positive commitment to change. This suggests that the client is taking responsibility for their recovery and recognizes the need for behavioral change to prevent future alcohol use. Such a commitment is a crucial step in overcoming alcohol use disorder and achieving long-term sobriety.

A. Sublimation involves channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities, which is not
demonstrated by the client’s statement.
B. Compensation involves making up for a perceived deficiency in one area by excelling in another area.
This is not relevant to the client’s statement.
C. Suppression is a defense mechanism where an individual consciously avoids thinking about something distressing. The client is consciously postponing thoughts about their cancer diagnosis until after a personal event.
D. Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development in response to stress, which is not
reflected in the client’s attempt to delay thinking about the diagnosis.