The client with muscle weakness asks the nurse during the initial assessment if the symptoms suggest 'Lou GehrigÔÇÖs' disease. Which is the nurseÔÇÖs most appropriate response?

There is no information that the client is working too much. Telling the client to avoid thinking the worst belittles the clientÔÇÖs concern. This is the most appropriate response because it focuses on the clientÔÇÖs concern, encourages verbalization, and solicits more information. ALS (Lou GehrigÔÇÖs disease) is a degenerative disease that affects the motor system and does not have a dementia component; thus, a question about memory is inappropriate. This response does not take the client seriously and does not address the clientÔÇÖs concern.