A nurse is caring for an older adult client who had a cerebrovascular accident and has right-sided paralysis and aphasia. The client's son tells the nurse it is his fault because he did not insist that his mother live with him. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A Reason:

"If it weren't for you and the hours we've spent talking, I don't think I would be on my way to getting my anxiety under control." While this statement acknowledges the importance of the nurse-patient relationship in helping with anxiety, it might imply a somewhat dependent stance. The ideal therapeutic relationship encourages patients to gain skills and tools to manage their issues independently.

Choice B Reason:

"I appreciate the time you spent with me. I have a better understanding of what I can do to manage my problem." This statement reflects the patient's acknowledgment of the nurse's support and guidance, resulting in a positive impact on the patient's understanding and ability to manage their concerns. It emphasizes the constructive nature of the nurse-patient relationship and the effectiveness of the interactions in addressing the patient's needs.

Choice C Reason:

"I really need to talk with you. You always give me good advice about how to address my anger issues." While seeking support and advice from the nurse is positive, the emphasis on always receiving good advice might suggest a more directive approach rather than collaborative exploration and problem-solving, which is often a goal in therapeutic relationships.

Choice D Reason:

"You've been kind to me when I was at a low point. Knowing you've had low points too was such a help. “While mutual understanding and empathy are crucial in the nurse-patient relationship, the statement may focus more on the nurse's experiences rather than the patient's progress or understanding. The primary focus should be on the patient's needs and growth.

Choice A Reason:

"Now that we've discussed your reasons for being here and how often we will meet, I'd like to talk about what we will do at the time of your discharge." This option seems to introduce the topic of termination prematurely, especially if the client's issues and goals haven't been adequately addressed yet.

Choice B Reason:

"You are being discharged today, so I'd like to bring up the subject of termination, which includes discussing your time here and summarizing what coping skills you have attained."This option presents termination at the time of discharge without prior discussion or collaboration with the client.

Choice C Reason:

"Now that we are working on your problem-solving skills and the behaviors you'd like to change, I'd like to bring up the issue of termination." In therapeutic relationships, termination is an essential phase that involves discussing the ending of the relationship and summarizing the progress made. Bringing up the topic of termination when actively working on the client's goals and issues is appropriate. It allows for a collaborative discussion about the achievements, future plans, and coping strategies that the client has developed during the therapeutic process.

Choice D Reason:

"I haven't met my new patient yet, but am working through my feelings of anxiety in dealing with a parent who wanted to kill herself." This statement is not related to the discussion of termination in the ongoing nurse-patient relationship.