What response should a nurse provide to a client expressing hopelessness about living?

When a client expresses hopelessness about living, a therapeutic response from the nurse is critical in fostering a supportive environment. The most appropriate response is one that invites the client to share more about their feelings, effectively demonstrating empathy and active listening.

Asking "What are you feeling?" is an open-ended question that encourages the client to articulate their emotions and thoughts without judgment. This approach allows the nurse to better understand the client’s state of mind and the depth of their hopelessness. By opening the dialogue, it can lead to a more comprehensive assessment of the client’s mental well-being and can guide the nurse in formulating an appropriate plan of care.

In contrast, responses that provide platitudes or advice, such as suggesting life is worth living regardless of the situation or emphasizing the need to focus on positive aspects, may inadvertently minimize the client’s feelings. Clients experiencing hopelessness may find such statements invalidating or dismissive, which could hinder the establishment of trust and rapport with the nurse.

Similarly, telling a client not to give up or that there is still time can be well-meaning but may come across as pressure rather than support. It is essential to meet the client where they are emotionally, allowing space for feelings of despair before guiding them toward hope and