If a client shouts a warning about someone seeing the nurse, what should the nurse's response be?

Choosing to ask the client, "Who are 'they'?" is a therapeutic response that encourages the client to elaborate on their concerns and fears. This approach reflects a willingness to engage in the client’s experience and focuses on understanding their perception of reality. By prompting the client to disclose more information, the nurse can gather important insights into the client's state of mind, which is crucial for accurate assessment and effective intervention in psychiatric care.

In psychiatric nursing, providing an opportunity for the client to express their thoughts without dismissing or invalidating their feelings is essential. This method helps build rapport and trust, showing the client that their concerns are being taken seriously.

The alternative responses might inadvertently minimize the client’s feelings or fail to address the underlying issues that may be causing their distress. For instance, stating "There is no one here who can see you" could be perceived as dismissive, while saying "You have nothing to fear" may overlook the very real anxiety the client is experiencing. Similarly, "What will happen if they see me?" might lead to further confusion or distress rather than fostering open communication about their fears. Thus, asking about "who they are" aligns more closely with therapeutic communication practices.