What is the nurse's therapeutic response to a teenage client questioning whether to inform their parents about their sexuality?

The choice of encouraging the teenage client to express their thoughts by asking, "What do you think you should do?" is pivotal in therapeutic communication. This approach empowers the client, promotes autonomy, and encourages critical thinking. By guiding the conversation in this way, the nurse allows the adolescent to explore their feelings, values, and the potential consequences of informing their parents about their sexuality. It validates the client’s concerns and acknowledges their right to make their own decisions, fostering a safe and supportive environment for open dialogue.

Such a response also aligns with the principles of client-centered care, which emphasize the importance of respecting the client's perspective and choices. This supportive interaction helps build trust and encourages the client to engage in problem-solving, rather than imposing the nurse's beliefs or decisions on them. This approach is essential for effective nursing practice, particularly in sensitive areas concerning adolescents and personal issues like sexuality.