A nurse is collecting data from a client regarding the client's sexual behavior. The client laughs and makes an inappropriate sexual comment. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

A nurse is collecting data from a client regarding the client's sexual behavior. The client laughs and makes an inappropriate sexual comment. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

• A. That is very inappropriate. Why would you say that?
• B. I am concerned by your response. Can you explain your comment?
• C. You shouldn't laugh about this. This is a serious topic.
• D. I don't approve of that comment. We will discuss this later.

Answer: (B)

When data gathering about sexual behavior, it’s important to respond in a way that stays therapeutic, nonjudgmental, and focused on understanding the client’s perspective. The best response acknowledges the client’s reaction without shaming them and invites further explanation. Saying you’re concerned by the response and asking the client to explain the comment shows care for how the client is processing the situation, maintains rapport, and keeps the door open for clarifying intent or context. This approach supports continued data collection, helps the nurse assess safety or need for guidance, and minimizes defensiveness. Other responses derail the conversation by judging or shaming the client, which can cause the client to withdraw or give less honest information. Scolding or declaring the topic inappropriate signals moral judgments, while disapproving the comment creates a power imbalance and blocks open communication.

When data gathering about sexual behavior, it’s important to respond in a way that stays therapeutic, nonjudgmental, and focused on understanding the client’s perspective. The best response acknowledges the client’s reaction without shaming them and invites further explanation. Saying you’re concerned by the response and asking the client to explain the comment shows care for how the client is processing the situation, maintains rapport, and keeps the door open for clarifying intent or context. This approach supports continued data collection, helps the nurse assess safety or need for guidance, and minimizes defensiveness.

Other responses derail the conversation by judging or shaming the client, which can cause the client to withdraw or give less honest information. Scolding or declaring the topic inappropriate signals moral judgments, while disapproving the comment creates a power imbalance and blocks open communication.