A nurse is speaking with a client during a counseling session who states, 'I feel like I am sliding off a cliff.' Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

The correct response is C: "You must be feeling very frightened right now." This acknowledges the client's emotions without making assumptions about the cause or offering unsolicited advice. It shows empathy and validates the client's feelings, which is essential in counseling. Choice A is too vague and does not address the client's emotional state. Choice B puts the client on the spot and may come off as confrontational. Choice D is dismissive and invalidates the client's emotions by suggesting they simply think positively. By choosing option C, the nurse demonstrates active listening and creates a supportive environment for the client to express their feelings further.