A client has just heard from his oncologist that his chemotherapy is no longer working and that his cancer has gotten worse. The doctor shared this information with the nurse and said that he was worried the client is very distressed. Which of the following should the nurse use to begin a conversation with the client?

A client has just heard from his oncologist that his chemotherapy is no longer working and that his cancer has gotten worse. The doctor shared this information with the nurse and said that he was worried the client is very distressed. Which of the following should the nurse use to begin a conversation with the client?

• A. I heard your cancer is back and your chemo is not working.
• B. Don't worry. I see you are upset, but everything will be okay.
• C. Can you tell me what the doctor just shared with you about how you are doing?
• D. I know the doctor gave you bad news, but there are always new treatments to try.

Answer: (C)

Opening with an open-ended question invites the patient to share what they understand and how they feel, which is essential after delivering distressing news. “Can you tell me what the doctor just shared with you about how you are doing?” gives the patient space to process, expresses genuine curiosity, and shows you’re there to listen and support. This approach helps assess their understanding, emotional state, and immediate needs, so you can respond with empathy and tailor next steps. Other options shut down dialogue or give false reassurance: one repeats information and can feel presumptive or intrusive, another minimizes emotions, and the last offers ungrounded optimism. The best choice prioritizes patient autonomy, clears up what the patient actually comprehends, and sets the stage for appropriate support and discussion of options.

Opening with an open-ended question invites the patient to share what they understand and how they feel, which is essential after delivering distressing news. “Can you tell me what the doctor just shared with you about how you are doing?” gives the patient space to process, expresses genuine curiosity, and shows you’re there to listen and support. This approach helps assess their understanding, emotional state, and immediate needs, so you can respond with empathy and tailor next steps.

Other options shut down dialogue or give false reassurance: one repeats information and can feel presumptive or intrusive, another minimizes emotions, and the last offers ungrounded optimism. The best choice prioritizes patient autonomy, clears up what the patient actually comprehends, and sets the stage for appropriate support and discussion of options.