A nurse is caring for a client who has delusional behavior and states, "I can't go to group therapy today. I am expecting a high level official to visit me!" The nurse responds, "I understand, but it is time for group therapy and we expect everyone to attend. Let's walk over together." For which of the following reasons is the nurse's response considered therapeutic?

A. It sets limits on the client's manipulative behavior: While the nurse is establishing boundaries, the primary focus is not on controlling manipulation but on facilitating participation in treatment. Setting limits is part of therapeutic communication but secondary in this context. B. It uses reflection when talking with the client: Reflection involves repeating or paraphrasing the client’s feelings to enhance self-awareness, which the nurse does not do here. The response does not mirror or validate the delusional content directly. C. It clearly articulates what is expected of the client: This is the key therapeutic aspect. The nurse communicates expectations for group therapy attendance clearly and calmly, providing structure and consistency, which helps clients with delusional thinking engage safely in treatment. D. It demonstrates empathy towards the client: Although the nurse acknowledges the client’s statement, the response focuses more on expectations and guidance than on expressing empathy for the delusional belief itself.