A client with chronic pain states, “I just want to be pain-free. Do so

A client with chronic pain states, “I just want to be pain-free. Do something to make that hap-pen.” The most therapeutic response is:

1. “Together we will all work at making your pain tolerable.”
2. “I will do everything I can to manage your pain; I promise.”
3. “Are you feeling depressed or anxious because of your pain?”
4. “You sound anxious. Would you like something for your nerves?”

ANSWER

ANS: 1
Complete pain relief is not always achievable, but reducing pain to a tolerable level is realistic. The remaining options either address issues other than pain or make promises that may be diffi-cult or impossible to keep.