NCLEX: A client in an outpatient clinic is being evaluated for nursing care related to stress response. Assessment data…

Psychology / lifespan development Health Promotion and Maintenance

Case Study

A client in an outpatient clinic is being evaluated for nursing care related to stress response. Assessment data include the client reports hearing voices telling them to hurt themselves. Which nurse response best supports psychosocial integrity?

Question

A. False reassurance that nothing is wrong.
B. Changing the subject when the client expresses fear.
C. Promising outcomes that cannot be guaranteed.
D. Therapeutic presence, active listening, validation, and suicide or violence screening when indicated.

Rationale

Correct answer: D. Therapeutic presence, active listening, validation, and suicide or violence screening when indicated.

Rationale: Psychosocial integrity items reward therapeutic communication and appropriate safety screening, not avoidance or false promises.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: Stress response