A nurse is communicating with a client who was just admitted for treatment of a substance use disorder. Which of the following communication techniques should the nurse identify as a barrier to therapeutic communication?

A. "It enables clients to see that other individuals have mental health issues." This option is partially correct because one of the benefits of group therapy is that it helps clients understand they are not alone in their struggles and that others share similar issues. This can be comforting and validating for clients.
B. "It provides a forum to reinforce client teaching regarding medication administration." This is not typically the primary function of group therapy. While medication education may occasionally be part of group discussions, the main focus of group therapy is on interpersonal interactions and support rather than specific teaching about medication.
C. "It is economical, since one staff member can treat many clients at once." Although group therapy can be cost-effective, this reason is secondary to its therapeutic value. The primary goal of group therapy is to provide therapeutic benefits through interaction and shared experiences rather than focusing on cost-efficiency.
D. "It establishes a situation where the client can relate to others and share perceptions." This option is the most accurate. Group therapy allows clients to relate to others with similar issues, share experiences, and gain support, which is fundamental to the therapeutic process.

A. Maturational: Maturational crises occur during life transitions or developmental stages, such as adolescence or retirement. The client’s response to a sudden loss does not fit this category.
B. Adventitious: Adventitious crises are caused by unexpected or external events, such as natural disasters or violent incidents. The sudden death of a partner fits this category, as it is an unexpected and external event impacting the client’s life.
C. Developmental: Developmental crises involve issues related to developmental stages and transitions. The client’s reaction to a sudden death is not related to developmental stages but rather to an unexpected loss.
D. Situational: Situational crises arise from specific, often unexpected events that disrupt an individual’s life, such as job loss or sudden illness. The sudden death of a partner is more accurately described as an adventitious crisis rather than a situational crisis.