Which of the following nursing statements has the greatest therapeutic

Which of the following nursing statements has the greatest therapeutic value when counseling a ‘sandwich generation’ client caring for a chronically ill parent?

1. “I can help you in finding assistance with the in-home care.”
2. “What is the most stressful aspect of caring for your parent?”
3. “I’m sure your children love having grandmother in the house.”
4. “What do you do for relaxation now that your mom lives with you?”

ANSWER

ANS: 4
Assess for caregiver stress, such as tension in relationships with family and care recipient, chang-es in level of health, changes in mood, and anxiety and depression. Asking the caregiver about hobbies or other means of relaxation is a nonthreatening way to assess tension levels. Offering to help find assistance infers a need for help that may insult the caregiver. Assuming the caregiver is stressed or assuming the living situation is good may cause the caregiver to be reluctant to discuss existing problems.