Using Maslow's pyramid, which patient comment would the nurse respond to first?

Choice A Reason:

"Your husband is making really good progress" This statement assumes a positive or negative judgment about the husband's progress without first understanding the spouse's concerns. It may not address the spouse's immediate emotional needs or allow them to express their feelings.

Choice B Reason:

"Crying helps us let things out and we feel better". While this statement acknowledges the act of crying as a way to express emotions, it doesn't directly address the specific concerns of the spouse or invite further communication about the issues causing distress.

Choice C Reason:

"Tell me what is concerning you. “This is a therapeutic nursing response because it encourages the spouse to express their concerns and share their feelings. It opens up communication and allows the nurse to better understand the specific issues or worries that the spouse is experiencing. This response demonstrates active listening and a genuine interest in the spouse's perspective, fostering a supportive and empathetic therapeutic relationship.

Choice D Reason:

"Did your husband say something to upset you?" This question assumes that the spouse's distress is solely related to something the husband said. It may not be the most open-ended or empathetic way to encourage the spouse to share their concerns and might direct the focus too narrowly.

Choice A Reason:

The coping skills (Choice A) may be observed and assessed as part of the broader clinical picture, but they are not typically specific components of a formal Mental Status Examination.

Choice B Reason:

Ability to perform calculations. This assesses the client's cognitive abilities, specifically related to mathematical reasoning and problem-solving.

Choice C Reason:

Recall ability. Assessing recall ability helps evaluate the client's short-term memory, which can be impaired in individuals with dementia.

Choice D Reason:

Long-term memory. Evaluating long-term memory provides insights into the client's ability to recall information from the distant past, which is another aspect of cognitive function.

Choice E Reason:

Level of orientation. Assessing orientation to time, place, and person is crucial in understanding the client's awareness of their surroundings and current circumstances, which can be affected in dementia.