A patient diagnosed with schizophrenia reveals to the nurse that voices have warned of danger and adds, 'They're so loud they frighten me. Do you hear them?' The nurse's best initial response would be:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it acknowledges the patient's experience without dismissing or invalidating it. By stating, "I know these voices are very real to you, but I don't hear them," the nurse validates the patient's reality and expresses empathy. This response helps build trust and rapport, which is crucial in establishing a therapeutic relationship.
Choice B is incorrect because it dismisses the patient's concerns and offers false reassurance, which may not be effective in addressing the patient's distress.
Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on gathering more information about the voices without addressing the patient's immediate emotional distress.
Choice D is incorrect because it shifts the focus away from the patient's current experience and onto distractions, which may not be helpful in addressing the patient's distressing symptoms.