A client diagnosed with schizophrenia states, Can't you hear him? Its the devil. He's telling me I'm going to hell. Which is the most appropriate nursing reply?
Did you take your medicine this morning?
i'm sure the voices sound scary, I don't hear any voices speaking
The devil only talks to people who are receptive to his influence
You are not going to hell. You are a good person
The Correct Answer is B
A. "Did you take your medicine this morning?": While medication adherence is important, this response does not directly address the client's distress or validate their experience. It may come across as dismissive.
B. "I'm sure the voices sound scary, I don't hear any voices speaking.": This response acknowledges the client's experience without confirming or denying the presence of the voices. It expresses empathy and provides reassurance, fostering a therapeutic relationship.
C. "The devil only talks to people who are receptive to his influence": This response introduces a belief system that may not align with the client's reality and could be perceived as judgmental. It's important to avoid imposing personal beliefs on clients experiencing hallucinations.
D. "You are not going to hell. You are a good person": While expressing support and reassurance is positive, making definitive statements about the client's fate or goodness may not be helpful. It's more effective to acknowledge the distress without making absolute affirmations.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Incorrect. Falling asleep in the chair and refusing to eat lunch is not indicative of tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD is characterized by involuntary movements, not by changes in sleep patterns or appetite.
B. Correct. Grimacing and lip smacking are characteristic movements associated with tardive dyskinesia. TD is a side effect of long-term use of typical antipsychotic medications, and it involves involuntary, repetitive movements, often involving the face and mouth.
C. Incorrect. Excessive salivation and drooling are not specific to tardive dyskinesia. These symptoms may occur due to various reasons, and TD is primarily associated with abnormal, involuntary movements.
D. Incorrect. Experiencing muscle rigidity and tremors is more characteristic of other side effects or conditions, such as extrapyramidal symptoms, but it is not specific to tardive dyskinesia. TD typically involves repetitive, involuntary movements rather than tremors.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Provide personal space to respect the client's boundaries: This is the correct answer. Personal space is crucial when caring for an agitated client with paranoia. Respecting the client's need for distance helps to reduce anxiety and prevent escalation of agitation.
B. Maintain continual eye contact throughout the interview: Continuous eye contact may be perceived as confrontational and can increase anxiety, especially in individuals with paranoia. It is important to be mindful of non-verbal cues and adapt the approach to the client's comfort level.
C. Provide neon lights and soft music: Introducing external stimuli like neon lights and music may not be appropriate for an agitated client with paranoia. It could potentially exacerbate their distress. The focus should be on creating a calm and non-threatening environment.
D. Use therapeutic touch to increase trust and rapport: While therapeutic touch can be beneficial in certain situations, it may not be suitable for a client experiencing paranoia. Touch can be perceived as intrusive and may escalate agitation in this context.
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