What statement by the nurse would best elicit information from a client worried about paying bills during hospitalization?

The statement "You are worried about paying your bills?" is the most effective way to elicit information from a client who is concerned about financial issues during their hospitalization. This approach demonstrates active listening and validates the client's feelings, encouraging them to open up and discuss their concerns more freely. By reflecting back the client's worry, the nurse invites further exploration of the client's thoughts and feelings regarding their financial situation, allowing for a more supportive and empathetic dialogue.

The other responses do not effectively address the client's concerns. Promising that "your bills will get paid eventually" may inadvertently dismiss the severity of the client's worry, as it offers reassurance without encouraging further discussion. Asking about a previous hospitalization for hyperglycemia is off-topic and does not relate to the client's present financial anxieties, while advising against alcohol consumption due to a diabetes diagnosis diverts the conversation away from the pressing issue of financial strain. Therefore, the first statement stands out as the best choice for eliciting meaningful and relevant information from the client.