A nurse is caring for a newly admitted client who is suspicious of the nursing staff and other clients. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to establish a relationship with this client?

This response is an appropriate nursing response in this situation. It acknowledges the client's need for assistance with grocery shopping while also recognizing that shopping and personal errands are not within the nurse's job description. By suggesting to explore other resources, the nurse can help the client find alternative solutions to meet their needs. This response demonstrates a willingness to support the client and collaborate on finding appropriate assistance, while also maintaining professional boundaries and responsibilities.

A. "I won't be able to shop for you today because I have to get home to my family." This response is inappropriate because it focuses on the nurse's personal circumstances and may come across as dismissive of the client's request for help. It does not address the client's needs or offer any alternative solutions.

B. "What I think you should do is wait for the days when you feel better and do your grocery shopping then." This response is dismissive of the client's current situation and does not offer any practical assistance or support. It implies that the client should simply wait for their condition to improve without addressing their immediate needs.

D. "I would be happy to do whatever I can to help you." While this response may initially seem supportive, it is inappropriate because shopping and performing personal errands for the client are not within the nurse's job description. It is important for the nurse to establish professional boundaries and adhere to the responsibilities outlined in their job description.

Building trust and rapport with a suspicious client takes time and consistency. By setting aside short, frequent times each day to spend with the client, the nurse demonstrates reliability, availability, and a commitment to the client's well-being. This approach allows the client to gradually develop trust and feel more comfortable interacting with the nurse.

The other options are not appropriate actions:

A. Waiting for the client to initiate interactions with the nurse may result in limited or no engagement, as the client's suspicion may hinder their willingness to reach out. It is important for the nurse to take an active role in building the therapeutic relationship.

C. Disclosing personal information to the client is not recommended. The nurse should maintain professional boundaries and focus on the client's needs and concerns rather than sharing personal details that may compromise the therapeutic relationship or create an imbalance of power.

D. Telling the client that he reminds the nurse of her father may inadvertently trigger the client's suspicious thoughts and reinforce their mistrust. Making such personal comparisons is not appropriate and can hinder the establishment of a therapeutic relationship. It is important to focus on the client's individual experiences and needs rather than making personal connections.