A nurse is caring for a client who reports bilateral knee pain after hiking this past weekend in the mountains on rough ground. He says he is concerned because his cousin died from bone cancer recently. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Asking the client why he thinks the pain isn’t from hiking may come across as dismissive and could heighten his anxiety. It does not address his concerns constructively or facilitate a medical evaluation to determine the cause of the pain. Choice B reason: Reassuring the client that bone cancer is unlikely without a medical evaluation is inappropriate, as it may minimize his concerns and delay necessary assessment. The nurse should avoid making diagnostic assumptions without provider input. Choice C reason: Suggesting genetic testing is premature without a medical evaluation to determine if the pain warrants such testing. The client’s pain is likely related to hiking, and a provider’s assessment should guide any further diagnostic steps. Choice D reason: Explaining that a provider will evaluate the client and determine the next steps is the most appropriate action. This response validates the client’s concerns, ensures a professional assessment of the knee pain, and provides a clear path forward without making assumptions about the cause.