A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing auditory hallucinations. Which of the following responses should the nurse make first?

The correct answer, indicated as B. Rationale: While the voices may be part of the illness, it is important to acknowledge the client's experience without dismissing it. Acknowledging the client's experience ('I know you hear the voices, but I do not') is important in establishing rapport and validating their reality. Asking how often the voices are heard can be useful, but acknowledging the client's perception should be the first priority. Asking what the voices are telling the client may come later, after the client's experience has been acknowledged.