How should the nurse respond to a client expressing disbelief about her positive pregnancy test?

When a client expresses disbelief about a positive pregnancy test, the most supportive and professional response acknowledges the client's feelings and provides an opportunity for her to express her emotions. Responding with an affirmation of the test results, followed by an open-ended question about her feelings, encourages communication and validates her experience. This approach helps establish a trusting nurse-client relationship, allowing the client to process her emotions related to the unexpected news.

This kind of response is particularly valuable in healthcare settings where feelings of shock, joy, anxiety, and uncertainty can occur simultaneously. It opens the door for further discussion and exploration of the client's thoughts and feelings, which is crucial in facilitating a healthy emotional adjustment to the news of pregnancy. This approach aligns with person-centered care principles, prioritizing the client's emotional well-being alongside physical health.