A nurse is talking to a client who has schizophrenia and reports experiencing auditory hallucinations. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Choice A reason: Telling the client “I don’t hear the voices. Concentrate on my voice instead” is therapeutic because it acknowledges the client’s experience without reinforcing the hallucination. It helps the client refocus on reality and provides grounding, which is an effective strategy in managing hallucinations. This is the correct answer. Choice B reason: Saying “They cannot hurt you” invalidates the client’s perception and may increase anxiety. While intended to reassure, it does not help the client differentiate between hallucinations and reality. Choice C reason: Suggesting that the voices won’t follow to a quiet room reinforces the hallucination as real. This is non-therapeutic because it validates the client’s distorted perception rather than helping them manage it. Choice D reason: Telling the client “The voices are not real” is dismissive and can make the client feel misunderstood. It does not provide support or coping strategies, and directing them to group without addressing their immediate distress is inappropriate.