UWorld Mental Health Practice Test

When a client expresses distress over their false beliefs, providing empathetic support and focusing on the client's feelings is the most therapeutic approach. This method helps to establish a trusting relationship and shows the client that the nurse is listening and validating their experience, which is essential for the healing process.

Validating the client’s emotions allows them to feel understood, even if their beliefs are not based in reality. Acknowledging their feelings can help reduce anxiety and increase the likelihood that they will be open to further conversation and support. This supportive stance helps the nurse to engage the client in a way that promotes comfort and reduces isolation, which is particularly important for clients dealing with delusions or other forms of mental distress.

Other approaches, such as arguing against the delusions or redirecting the client’s attention, may invalidate their feelings and can potentially lead to increased distress or resistance. Asking if the client is aware of their misconceptions may come off as confrontational, which could further alienate the client and exacerbate their anxiety. Empathy fosters connection and rapport, which are critical in the therapeutic alliance.