A nurse is speaking with a client who experienced physical assault. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Touching the client for reassurance may be inappropriate after a physical assault, as it could trigger feelings of fear, discomfort, or retraumatization. Physical contact should be avoided unless the client explicitly consents. B. Allowing the client to control the conversation is correct. trauma-informed care emphasizes empowerment and client autonomy. Letting the client guide the discussion fosters safety, trust, and a sense of control, which are critical in trauma-informed care. This approach helps the client feel respected and reduces the risk of retraumatization. C. Asking a series of questions about who assaulted them can be retraumatizing if done in a structured or pressuring way. Detailed questioning should be done only when necessary for reporting or legal purposes and conducted sensitively by trained professionals. The nurse’s initial priority is emotional support, not investigative questioning. D. Insisting the client report the incident removes their autonomy and can increase anxiety, fear, and mistrust. While reporting may be important, the decision should be client-centered, and the nurse should provide information, support, and options rather than force action.