For a client experiencing hallucinations, which of the following techniques should a nurse employ?

The correct choice is to engage in reality-based conversations while observing for anxiety. This approach is effective because it allows the nurse to maintain a therapeutic relationship with the client while focusing on grounding them in reality. By engaging in conversations that reflect factual and verifiable information, the nurse can help the client differentiate between their perceptions and reality without dismissing their experiences, which may only increase the client's distress.

Additionally, observing for anxiety is crucial as it allows the nurse to assess the client's emotional state and respond appropriately to any signs of discomfort. This technique promotes a sense of safety and trust, which is essential in fostering an environment conducive to healing and stability for individuals experiencing hallucinations.

Encouraging clients to engage with their hallucinations or dismissing them as untrue can lead to an escalation of anxiety and reinforce the client's distress. Challenging the client's perceptions directly may also provoke defensiveness and worsen their psychological state, making it more difficult for them to cope with their experiences. Engaging in reality-based conversations effectively balances understanding and support while promoting mental health stability.