A client who abuses alcohol expresses confidence in becoming a social drinker. What is the most appropriate nursing response?

• A. "When do you think you can become a social drinker?"
• B. "What makes you think you'll learn to drink normally?"
• C. "Does your alcohol use cause major problems in your life?"
• D. "How many alcoholic beverages can a social drinker consume?"

Answer: (C)

The most appropriate response in this scenario is focused on assessing the client's awareness of the implications of their alcohol use. By asking about whether their alcohol use causes major problems in their life, the nurse invites the client to reflect on the consequences of their drinking behaviors. This approach is crucial because it encourages self-assessment, which is an important step towards recognizing the potential issues associated with alcohol misuse.

This type of response fosters an open dialogue where the client can explore the effects of their drinking on their relationships, work, health, and overall quality of life. It also lays the groundwork for discussing the nuances of alcohol dependency and the challenges that arise in attempting to return to social drinking after a history of abuse. This reflective engagement not only helps the nurse gauge the severity of the client's situation but also emphasizes the need for introspection and potential reconsideration of their confidence in being a social drinker.

The other responses, while they may seem relevant, do not effectively prompt the client to evaluate their situation in the same way. They focus on hypothetical scenarios or specific behaviors rather than encouraging the client to confront the reality of their alcohol use and its implications.