How should a nurse respond to personal questions from a client in a therapeutic relationship?

In a therapeutic relationship, the nurse's primary focus is to support the client's emotional, psychological, and social needs. When a client poses personal questions, responding with brief, truthful answers while redirecting the conversation back to the client's issues is essential. This method maintains the therapeutic boundaries necessary for a professional relationship, allowing the client to feel heard without shifting the focus onto the nurse.

Providing honest and concise answers showcases a willingness to engage, while redirection helps to prevent the conversation from becoming too personal, which could hinder the therapeutic process. This strategy encourages clients to explore their own feelings and thoughts rather than turning the session into an opportunity for the nurse to share personal experiences or beliefs, which might not be beneficial for the client's growth or healing.