A client is admitted to the mental health unit and sits in the corner of the day room. When the nurse begins the admission assessment interview, the client is guarded, suspicious, and resists talking.
Which action should the nurse implement?
Postpone the client interview until the next day.
Document the client's paranoid behavior.
Attempt to ask the client simple questions.
Ask another nurse to talk with the client.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Postponing the interview until the next day may not be necessary and could delay necessary assessment and care.
Choice B rationale:
Documenting the client's paranoid behavior is important but should be done after the nurse attempts to engage with the client.
Choice C rationale:
Attempting to ask the client simple questions is a non-threatening approach that allows the nurse to start the assessment and establish some rapport. It respects the client's need for space while initiating communication.
Choice D rationale:
Asking another nurse to talk with the client may be an option later if the client remains uncooperative, but the nurse should first attempt to engage with the client directly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Helping the client practice relaxation techniques within the group may not be effective for severe anxiety because the environment may still be overstimulating. The client may not be able to focus or participate until anxiety decreases.
B. Escorting the client from the group to a quieter environment is the priority intervention for severe anxiety. Reducing environmental stimuli helps the client regain control, decreases physiological arousal, and allows the nurse to implement therapeutic interventions safely.
C. Providing education about coping strategies is appropriate for mild to moderate anxiety but is ineffective during a severe anxiety episode because the client’s ability to process information is impaired.
D. Asking the client to describe and identify the source of anxiety can increase stress and is not appropriate during a severe anxiety state. Therapeutic exploration is better initiated once the client’s anxiety is reduced.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Any history of heart disease: While a history of heart disease is important for general health, it is not the most critical factor prior to initiating sertraline. The nurse should still assess for cardiovascular conditions, but this is not the most pressing concern.
B. Familial history of mental illness: While a familial history of mental illness can inform treatment decisions, it is not the most immediate or critical piece of information before starting sertraline.
C. Current weight: Weight is generally not the primary consideration before starting sertraline. However, weight changes can occur during treatment, but this is more of a concern during the ongoing management of the medication.
D. Medication history: Sertraline, as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels (e.g., other antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, etc.). It is crucial to assess the client’s current medication history to prevent harmful drug interactions, such as serotonin syndrome. This is the most important information to gather before initiating treatment.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.