Final answer:
A mentor's most therapeutic response to a new nurse missing cues on a patient's emotional state would be supportive and educational, focusing on the importance of observing non-verbal cues and suggesting strategies to improve situational awareness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most therapeutic response a mentor can provide to a new graduate nurse who missed cues regarding a client's emotional state is one that is supportive, instructive, and non-judgmental. Learning to pick up on non-verbal cues and emotional states of patients is a critical skill for nurses, as it can significantly impact patient care. A mentor should encourage reflection on what was missed and suggest strategies for improvement.
For instance, the mentor could say something like, “It’s important to be aware of our patients’ emotional states as well as their physical health. Let’s talk about what signs you might look for next time to better assess the patient’s emotional needs.” This approach helps the new nurse develop observational skills while also reassuring them that missing cues is a learning opportunity, not a failure.