Question

A middle adult client tells the nurse, "I feel so useless now that my children do not need me anymore". Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

a) "It's normal to feel that way, but there are still many meaningful activities you can engage in."
b) "You shouldn't feel that way; your value goes beyond your role as a parent."
c) "You should focus on finding a new job to fill your time and regain a sense of purpose."
d) "Your children will always need you; it's just a phase they're going through."

Answer 1

The nurse should acknowledge the middle adult client's feelings and suggest engaging in meaningful activities to overcome feelings of uselessness, fostering a sense of generativity and promoting well-being.

Step-by-step explanation:

A middle adult client expresses feelings of uselessness now that their children are grown and no longer need the same level of care. In addressing this concern, the most appropriate response from the nurse might be "It's normal to feel that way, but there are still many meaningful activities you can engage in." This response acknowledges the client's feelings of generativity versus stagnation, which is a common psychosocial issue in middle adulthood. The nurse encourages the client to find meaningful activities and ways to contribute to others which can lead to a sense of generativity, helping to address feelings of stagnation. It's important for individuals in this stage of life to discover new social connections, activities, and roles that provide purpose and fulfillment, fostering a sense of well-being.