A client with paranoid schizophrenia continuously expresses fears of being harmed. What is the best response by the nurse?

A client with paranoid schizophrenia continuously expresses fears of being harmed. What is the best response by the nurse?

• A. "You're having very frightening thoughts."
• B. "That's not true."
• C. "You shouldn't worry about that."
• D. "Why would they want to hurt you?"

Answer: (A)

The most effective response by the nurse is that it acknowledges the client's emotional experience without dismissing their feelings or fears. By saying, "You're having very frightening thoughts," the nurse validates the client's feelings and shows empathy. This kind of response helps to build rapport and trust, which is crucial in providing care for individuals experiencing psychosis. Recognizing and naming their fear allows the client to feel heard and understood, which can reduce their anxiety and potentially foster a therapeutic environment. In contrast, responses that dismiss or challenge the client's concerns, such as stating that "That's not true," minimize the client's experience and could lead to further distrust or agitation. Suggesting, "You shouldn't worry about that," can also come off as invalidating, which might push the client away rather than support them. Asking, "Why would they want to hurt you?" may inadvertently place the client in a position to defend their fears, which can exacerbate feelings of paranoia instead of providing comfort or understanding.

The most effective response by the nurse is that it acknowledges the client's emotional experience without dismissing their feelings or fears. By saying, "You're having very frightening thoughts," the nurse validates the client's feelings and shows empathy. This kind of response helps to build rapport and trust, which is crucial in providing care for individuals experiencing psychosis. Recognizing and naming their fear allows the client to feel heard and understood, which can reduce their anxiety and potentially foster a therapeutic environment.

In contrast, responses that dismiss or challenge the client's concerns, such as stating that "That's not true," minimize the client's experience and could lead to further distrust or agitation. Suggesting, "You shouldn't worry about that," can also come off as invalidating, which might push the client away rather than support them. Asking, "Why would they want to hurt you?" may inadvertently place the client in a position to defend their fears, which can exacerbate feelings of paranoia instead of providing comfort or understanding.