Question

The nurse is caring for a Vietnam veteran with a history of explosive anger, unemployment, and depression since being discharged from the service. The client reports feeling ashamed of being weak and of letting past experiences control thoughts and actions in the present. What is the nurse's best response?

1. Many people who've been in your situation experience similar emotions and behaviors.
2. You can change your behavior if you're motivated to do so.
3. It isn't too late for you to make changes in your life.
4. Weak people don't want to make changes in their lives.

Answer 1

The nurse should respond empathetically to the Vietnam veteran, normalizing his experiences with PTSD and reducing feelings of shame by informing him that many individuals in similar situations face comparable emotions and behaviors.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's best response to the Vietnam veteran suffering from symptoms of PTSD and expressing feelings of shame and helplessness would be to offer validation and support. The appropriate nursing communication should focus on empathizing with the patient's suffering and reinforcing their resilience and capability for change. Hence, the most therapeutic response would be: "Many people who've been in your situation experience similar emotions and behaviors." This statement acknowledges the veteran's feelings while also normalizing his experiences, which can help to reduce feelings of isolation and shame.