The statement "I don't feel confident managing the client on my own" demonstrates assertiveness because it effectively communicates the nurse's feelings and concerns regarding the assignment. This approach allows the nurse to express a legitimate concern about their ability to provide safe and effective care without being aggressive or confrontational.
Assertiveness involves standing up for oneself while also maintaining respect for others. By articulating a specific feeling of lack of confidence, the nurse opens the door for a constructive dialogue with a supervisor or manager, which may lead to a reassessment of the assignment or additional support based on their assessed competency.
In contrast, other options may reflect varying degrees of discomfort but do not effectively communicate assertiveness. For instance, asking for clients to be assigned according to skill level may come across as demanding rather than expressing a personal concern. Offering to care for a client despite reservations implies compliance rather than assertiveness, suggesting a lack of advocacy for the nurse's own needs. Expressing a simple refusal to work with a client signals discomfort but lacks the clarity needed to foster understanding and assistance.