Which nursing interventions are appropriate in this situation? Sheila tells the community nurse that her boyfriend has been abusive and she is afraid of him. but she doesn’t want to leave. The client asks the nurse for assistance. (Select all that apply)

Help Sheila to develop a plan to ensure safety. including phone numbers for emergency help.
Communicate acceptance. avoiding any implication that Sheila is at fault for not leaving.
Help Sheila to explore available options. including shelters and legal protection.
Tell Sheila that she should leave because things will not improve.

These are all appropriate nursing interventions for the victim of domestic violence. The client is not responsible for seeking help for the abuser. and encouraging her to do so may reinforce the clients feeling responsible for the abuse. Advising the client must decide for herself whether to leave. and the nurse must respect any decision the client makes. Making the decision for the client will erode her self-esteem and reinforce her sense of powerlessness.