A client becomes very dejected and states, "No one really cares what happens to me. Life isn't worth living anymore." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. “Why do you feel that way?”: In therapeutic communication, "Why" questions are non-therapeutic. They can be perceived as accusatory or demanding, causing the client to become defensive or shut down. B. “Of course people care. Your family comes to visit every day.”: This is argumentative and dismissive. It challenges the client's perception and invalidates their feelings. The nurse should accept the client's feelings as real to them, rather than arguing with facts. C. “Tell me who you think doesn't care about you.”: This focuses the conversation on others rather than the client's own feelings and current emotional state. It deflects from the core issue of hopelessness. D. “I care about you, and I am concerned that you feel so sad.”: This response uses the therapeutic technique of offering self and showing empathy. It validates the client's feelings without judging them and addresses the immediate concern (suicidal ideation/hopelessness) by building a supportive connection.