Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

When responding to a client grieving their husband’s death, what is an appropriate statement by the psychiatric technician?

1. "You should be focusing on the future."

2. "He had a good life and we should remember that."

3. "His death is a terrible loss to you."

4. "Time will heal your pain."

The correct answer is: "His death is a terrible loss to you."

The most appropriate statement in this scenario is one that acknowledges the client's feelings and validates their grief. By saying, "His death is a terrible loss to you," the psychiatric technician is recognizing the profound impact of the loss on the client. This statement offers validation, which is crucial in the grieving process. It shows empathy and understanding, allowing the client to feel heard and supported during a deeply painful time. Offering an acknowledgment of the loss is important in therapeutic contexts, as it helps clients process their emotions and invites them to talk about their feelings if they choose to do so. Sometimes, simply stating the weight of their loss can be healing in itself, providing a space for the grieving individual to express their sorrow. Other responses, while potentially well-meaning, may inadvertently minimize the client's feelings or divert their focus away from their current emotional state. Hence, focusing on the value of remembering the deceased or suggesting a forward-looking approach may not meet the client where they are in their grief.