A patient experiencing significant stress associated with a disturbing new medical diagnosis asks the nurse, "Do you think saying a prayer would help?" Select the nurse's best answer.

A) "It could be that prayer is your only hope."
B) "You may find prayer gives comfort and lowers your stress."
C) "I can help you feel calmer by teaching you meditation exercises."
D) "We do not have evidence that prayer helps, but it wouldn't hurt."

Many patients find that spiritual measures, including prayer, are helpful in mediating stress. Studies have shown that spiritual practices can enhance the sense of well-being. When a patient suggests a viable means of reducing stress, it should be supported by the nurse. Indicating that prayer is the patient's only hope is pessimistic and would cause further distress. Suggesting meditation or other alternatives to prayer implies that the nurse does not think prayer would be effective.