Question

A 17-year-old client comes to the community crisis clinic with multiple superficial cuts on the wrist. The client is crying uncontrollably and states that the client's romantic partner has left and the client doesn't want to live without the partner. What would be the most therapeutic initial nursing response?

A. "There's plenty of fish in the sea. Don't worry, at your age you will find someone else."
B. "Many partners change their minds about relationships, this is really quite normal."
C. "Let's set some boundaries on your behavior here."
D. "I can see that you are feeling anxious. I will stay with you until you feel better."

Answer 1

D. Address their feeling, understand or try too and communicate

Answer 2

D would be the most beneficial response. Telling him he’ll find someone else or his partner will change their mind makes it sound like you’re undermining what he’s going through, and asking to set boundaries won’t help someone in distress. But saying, “Hey, I know you’re anxious. I’m here for you until you’re calm,” is reassuring for a patient to hear.