A nurse is interviewing the partner of a client who was admitted in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. The partner states, “I don't know what to do. Everything has been happening so quickly.” Which of the following responses by the nurse is therapeutic?

A. "Why do you think your partner's symptoms are progressing so quickly?” This question can feel blaming and may cause the partner to become defensive, which is not therapeutic. This response shifts the burden of explanation to the partner and doesn't directly address their expressed feeling of being overwhelmed. B. “You did the right thing by bringing your partner in for treatment.” While supportive, this statement shuts down further discussion and does not encourage the partner to express feelings or concerns. C. “Can you talk about what was happening with your partner at home.” This open-ended question encourages the partner to share feelings and experiences, fostering communication and therapeutic rapport. D. “You should make sure your partner takes the prescribed medication.” This response is prescriptive and shifts immediately to an action plan without first acknowledging or exploring the partner's current emotional state and the overwhelming situation they are describing. .