Which response by the nurse is most appropriate when assessing a child who has been abused?

When assessing a child who has been abused, it is crucial to create a safe and supportive environment that encourages open communication. The response that acknowledges the difficulty of the situation and commends the child for speaking out fosters trust and validates the child's feelings. Such supportive responses help the child feel understood and encourage them to share their experiences without fear of judgment or retribution.

Feeling validated is particularly important for children who may have been living in an abusive environment where they were taught to keep silent or feel guilty. The nurse's statement not only shows empathy but also reinforces the child's courage in coming forward. This approach prioritizes the child's emotional well-being and sets the stage for accurate information to be gathered in a sensitive manner.

Other responses might inadvertently lead to feelings of blame or guilt, which could inhibit the child from being forthcoming in their disclosure. The focus in this scenario should always be on support and understanding.