Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 91%
Full-length
A 45-year-old client is in a rehabilitation unit receiving long-term care for injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. The client's spouse used to stay home but started working to replace the client's lost income. The nurse notices that the client has become withdrawn and increasingly frustrated by small inconveniences. Which statement is the most appropriate first response by the nurse?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Acknowledging observed behavior (B) opens a therapeutic conversation and validates the client's feelings. Asking about the spouse's job (A), assuming anger (C), or suggesting a support group (D) may not address the client's current emotional state.