What is the most therapeutic response a nurse can give to a client expressing fear before surgery?

The most therapeutic response in this scenario is to ask the client what they are concerned about right now. This approach is beneficial because it actively invites the client to express their feelings and fears, promoting open communication. It demonstrates empathy and validation of the client's emotions, allowing the nurse to understand the specific sources of anxiety. Engaging the client in this manner fosters a therapeutic relationship, showing that the nurse is attentive and supportive.

By giving the client a chance to articulate their worries, the nurse can provide more tailored support or information that might alleviate some of the client's fears. This response emphasizes the importance of the client's perspective and encourages them to be involved in their care, which can empower them and reduce feelings of helplessness that often accompany anxiety before a medical procedure.

In contrast, other responses may not effectively address the client's emotional needs. Simply reassuring the client without understanding their specific concerns could come off as dismissive, as it might not address the underlying issues contributing to their fear. Telling the client to stop worrying could invalidate their feelings and might make them feel misunderstood or alone in their anxiety. Ignoring the client's concerns altogether would likely increase their sense of fear and isolation, which is counterproductive in a therapeutic setting.