A nurse is caring for a client who states during a counseling session, 'I am sliding off a cliff.' Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

The correct answer is D: "You must be feeling very frightened right now." This response shows empathy and acknowledges the client's emotions without dismissing or minimizing them. It validates the client's feelings and helps build trust in the therapeutic relationship. Choice A is invalidating and dismissive. Choice B is overly simplistic and does not address the client's emotional state. Choice C is a closed-ended question that does not directly address the client's immediate distress. Overall, choice D demonstrates active listening and provides a supportive response to the client's emotional disclosure.