A nurse is caring for a client following reported physical abuse. The client is quiet and withdrawn. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Displaying disapproval toward the perpetrator may seem supportive, but it is not therapeutic. The nurse’s role is to provide objective, nonjudgmental care to the client. Expressing disapproval could shift focus away from the client’s needs and potentially compromise professional boundaries. Choice B reason: Inviting a family member to be present during the nursing history may compromise the client’s privacy and safety. In cases of abuse, family members may be perpetrators or may influence the client’s disclosure. The nurse must prioritize confidentiality and allow the client to share information in a safe, private environment. Choice C reason: Being direct and honest when communicating with the client fosters trust and therapeutic rapport. Survivors of abuse often feel vulnerable and mistrustful; clear, honest communication reassures them that the nurse is supportive and reliable. This approach respects the client’s autonomy and encourages disclosure without pressure. Choice D reason: Probing the client for a detailed account of the abuse can be retraumatizing and may overwhelm the client. The nurse should allow the client to share information at their own pace, using open-ended questions and supportive listening rather than pressing for details.