A 61-year-old client who lost two sons and daughter-in-law in a nightclub fire says, 'We were going to retire early, but now we are the only ones who can care for our two grandchildren.' Which nurse response would be therapeutic?

• A. I'm glad you can continue to support your family.
• B. This must be a time of great disruption for you both.
• C. I am sorry you've had so many losses.
• D. Perhaps you should consider professional help for your grief.

Answer: (C)

Empathy and validation in communication are essential when someone is grief-stricken. Saying “I am sorry you’ve had so many losses” openly acknowledges the pain and loss the clients have experienced, which helps them feel heard and understood. This kind of response creates a safe space for them to share more about their feelings without feeling hurried to “fix” the situation or move on. It respects their experience and offers emotional support, which is the heart of therapeutic nursing communication.

The other options miss that compassionate acknowledgment or shift the focus too quickly. They can come off as minimizing the grief, overemphasizing disruption, or suggesting professional help before the person is ready, rather than sit with their current pain and invite further discussion.