A home health nurse is collecting data on an adolescent who has cystic fibrosis. The child expresses concern about experiencing increasing episodes of respiratory distress and asks the nurse for insight into the possible reasons. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

A. "As a nurse, I can't diagnose what is causing you to have worsening symptoms. However, we will relay this information to your healthcare provider so they can determine what should happen next." While it is true that nurses cannot diagnose, this response does not address the adolescent’s concerns or encourage them to share more information about their symptoms. B. "If you are experiencing worsening respiratory distress, we must get you to the emergency department immediately." This response may create unnecessary alarm without first assessing the severity of the symptoms. While severe distress requires urgent care, the nurse should first gather more information. C. "It sounds like you may be concerned that your condition could be getting worse. That can be scary—tell me more about what you have been experiencing." This is correct because it acknowledges the adolescent's emotions, encourages open communication, and allows the nurse to gather more information before determining the appropriate course of action. D. "As you know, cystic fibrosis is a respiratory disease. Increased respiratory distress is a characteristic symptom of this disorder." While this statement is factually correct, it dismisses the adolescent’s concern instead of providing reassurance, emotional support, and further assessment.