What approach should the nurse take if the client opens the gift and finds it upsetting?

Providing immediate emotional support is the most appropriate approach when a client reacts negatively to a gift. This response facilitates a safe space for the client to process their feelings, allowing them to express any distress or discomfort caused by the situation. Emotional support can include active listening, validating their emotions, and offering empathy, which are essential in fostering a therapeutic relationship and promoting healing.

In moments of distress, it is crucial for the nurse to be present and supportive, helping the client explore and articulate their feelings. This can aid the client in understanding their reactions and coping with their emotions more effectively. Unlike the other options, which involve dismissing or redirecting the client’s feelings, providing emotional support encourages the client to confront their emotions in a constructive way.