When a patient states, "I don't feel like walking today," the nurse's most therapeutic verbal response would be:

A. Defensive response
A defensive response would involve protecting oneself or one's position rather than addressing the patient’s concerns. The nurse’s statement here is more dismissive than defensive.

B. Asking probing questions
Probing questions would involve persistent questioning, which does not apply here, as the nurse is not asking questions but making a dismissive comment.

C. Using clichés
"Every cloud has a silver lining" is a cliché, which may come across as dismissive and minimize the patient’s concerns. Using clichés can make the patient feel unheard and invalidated.

D. Changing the subject

Changing the subject would involve diverting attention to an unrelated topic. The nurse here is not introducing a new topic but is using a cliché instead.

A. Asking probing questions. Probing questions can feel invasive, leading to discomfort or defensiveness from the patient.

B. Using nonjudgmental remarks. Nonjudgmental remarks foster open communication, so this is not a communication block.

C. Changing the subject. Changing the subject shows disregard for the patient’s thoughts or feelings, which can block effective communication.

D. Using clichés. Clichés can make patients feel as though their concerns are not truly heard or understood.

E. Giving advice. Giving advice without patient input can make the patient feel undervalued and less autonomous.

F. Offering hope. Offering realistic hope and encouragement can actually facilitate communication, as long as it’s not false reassurance.