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?

Rationale: A. "Can you talk about what was happening with your partner at home?": This open-ended question encourages the partner to express emotions and provide context, which helps build trust and gather relevant information. It’s a therapeutic response that validates the partner’s experience without judgment or assumptions. B. "Why do you think your partner's symptoms are progressing so quickly?” This question may come off as accusatory or put the partner on the defensive. "Why" questions can create a sense of blame or pressure, which is not conducive to a supportive therapeutic environment. C. "You should make sure your partner takes the prescribed medication”: This directive may be perceived as dismissive and does not acknowledge the partner’s emotional distress. While medication adherence is important, this is not the most therapeutic or empathetic initial response. D. "You did the right thing by bringing your partner in for treatment”: While affirming the decision is supportive, this response closes the conversation and doesn’t invite the partner to explore their concerns or emotions further, limiting therapeutic dialogue.