If the husband of a manic client apologizes for her actions, what response by the nurse is most therapeutic?

The most therapeutic response in this scenario is to acknowledge the husband’s feelings by saying, "This must be difficult for you." This response demonstrates empathy and validates the husband's emotional experience, which is essential in therapeutic communication. By recognizing his struggle, the nurse creates a supportive environment where the husband feels heard and understood. This can help establish trust and encourage him to share more about his feelings and concerns regarding his wife's condition.

In situations involving mood disorders, family members often experience feelings of confusion, frustration, and sadness. Acknowledging these emotions can foster a more open dialogue, allowing the nurse to provide necessary support and education about the manic episode and how best to cope with it.

The other responses do not adequately address the emotional state of the husband or may inadvertently minimize his feelings. Asking "How long has she been like this?" focuses on the patient's condition instead of supporting the family member. Saying "It's okay, we've heard worse," can come across as dismissive of the husband's feelings, and stating "She needs medication" shifts the conversation to treatment without recognizing the emotional impact on the husband. Effective therapeutic communication prioritizes empathetic engagement over clinical details.