A single parent whose son was suspended from school for carrying a gun; which nursing response would be helpful at this time?

• A. There is not much you can do. We'll see.
• B. There is quite a bit that you can do. Let's talk about what you're already doing first.
• C. You should ground him for a year.
• D. This is all your fault.

Answer: (B)

Therapeutic, strengths-based family engagement after a crisis. In this moment, the nurse should respond with empathy and collaboration, inviting the parent to discuss what they are already doing. A statement that there is quite a bit you can do and that you want to start by talking about what they’re currently doing validates the parent's efforts and reduces defensiveness. This approach builds trust, acknowledges the family's stress, and creates a practical entry point to assess safety, coping strategies, and available resources (counseling, school supports, community services). By focusing on the family’s existing strengths and actions, the nurse can tailor next steps to fit the situation, identify protective factors, and plan realistic, collaborative actions to reduce risk. Dismissing the parent's role, blaming them, or pushing punitive demands tends to shut down communication and missed opportunities for support.