A recently widowed client becomes tearful at a routine clinic visit and states, "I just can’t get over my spouse’s death." Which of the following by the nurse are appropriate? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Sharing personal loss shifts the focus away from the patient, which is not therapeutic. Self-disclosure in this way can hinder supportive communication. Choice B reason: Suggesting a grief support group acknowledges the patient’s feelings while offering a constructive coping resource. It validates distress and provides support. Choice C reason: Leaving the patient when they are emotionally vulnerable conveys abandonment instead of support, which is not therapeutic. Choice D reason: Normalizing grief as a process that takes time offers reassurance without minimizing the client’s emotions. It helps the patient understand that healing is gradual. Choice E reason: Encouraging the patient to share coping strategies promotes expression of feelings and helps the nurse assess adaptive versus maladaptive coping mechanisms.