During a group therapy session, a newly admitted patient suddenly says to the nurse, "How old are you? You seem too young to be leading a group." Select the nurse's most appropriate response.

A) "I am wondering what leads you to ask. Please tell me more."
B) "I am old enough to be a nurse, which qualifies me to lead this group."
C) "My age is not pertinent to why we are here and should not concern you."
D) "You are wondering whether I have enough experience to lead this group?"

A question such as this is common in the initial phase of group development when members are getting to know one another, dealing with trust issues, and testing the leader. Making explicit the implied serves to role model more effective communication and prompts further discussion of the patient's concern. Asking the patient to tell the leader more about the question focuses on the reason for the member's concern rather than on the issue raised (the experience and ability of the leader) and is a less helpful response. "I am old enough to be a nurse" and "age is not pertinent" are defensive responses and fail to address the patient's valid concern.