The 65-year-old patient tells the nursing student that his sex life was ruined after having rostate surgery.What statement by the student would be most appropriate?

A) "I am so sorry to hear that. A close sexual relationship is so important."
B) "It is possible to have a close, intimate relationship without intercourse."
C) "Let's talk a little more about the ways in which your sex life has been ruined."
D) "You might want to try one of the medications available to treat erectile dysfunction."

Seeking more specific information about the patient's sex life and what he means by "ruined" will help the nurse understand the problem that the patient is experiencing."I'm sorry to hear that ..." reflects kind intentions,but it does not help the patient or address his problem.It is true that one can have a close,intimate relationship without having intercourse; however,that statement does not help the patient or explore the meaning of "ruined," nor obtain useful information.It is outside the nurse's scope of practice to discuss medications without an order from the physician.