What question should a nurse ask to assess a client's social support?

The question about having a special person to call if needed is particularly effective in assessing a client's social support because it directly addresses the availability of emotional and practical support in times of need. This question focuses on the presence of a reliable individual that the client can turn to for support, which is a critical aspect of social networks. Knowing if the client has someone they can reach out to highlights the key components of a supportive relationship, helping the nurse gauge the strength and accessibility of the client’s social circle.

In contrast, simply asking about family visits or how often the client sees friends may not give a true representation of the quality or depth of those relationships. While family and friends are important, the willingness or ability of someone to provide help during a crisis is more indicative of effective social support. Asking about loneliness might indicate a deficiency in social support but does not explore the client’s actual support systems or connections, which makes it less effective for a comprehensive assessment.