A client is becoming increasingly agitated, anxious, and tense. The nurse notes a clenched jaw and a change in the pitch of the client's voice. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first?
Verbally de-escalate the client.
Obtain a prescription for haloperidol.
Place the client in restraints.
Take the client to the seclusion room.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Verbal de-escalation involves using calm, non-confrontational communication techniques to help calm the client. This can include speaking softly, using non-threatening body language, and actively listening to the client's concerns. It is the first-line intervention for managing escalating behavior because it aims to reduce agitation without the use of physical or chemical restraints.
B. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication that may be prescribed for acute agitation and aggression in some situations. However, obtaining a prescription requires provider authorization and should not be the first intervention unless the client's agitation poses an immediate threat to safety and verbal de- escalation has been ineffective. It is typically used when other interventions have not successfully managed agitation.
C. Physical restraints should only be used as a last resort and in accordance with institutional policies and legal guidelines. Restraints are intended to prevent harm to the client or others when all other methods of de-escalation have failed and there is an imminent risk of harm. Placing a client in restraints without attempting verbal de-escalation first can escalate the situation further.
D. Seclusion is also a restrictive intervention that should be used judiciously and only when necessary to protect the client or others from harm. It involves placing the client in a designated, secure area where they can be monitored closely. Similar to physical restraints, seclusion should be considered only after attempts at verbal de-escalation have been unsuccessful and there is a clear risk of harm.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This is not typically associated with antisocial personality disorder. People with ASPD often exhibit a lack of remorse and guilt, and they may be prone to impulsive and risk-taking behaviors rather than excessive anxiety.
B. Exploitation of others is a hallmark feature of antisocial personality disorder. Individuals with ASPD may manipulate, exploit, or deceive others for personal gain without regard for others' feelings or rights.
C. Withdrawn behaviors, where individuals tend to isolate themselves or avoid social interactions, are not characteristic of antisocial personality disorder. In fact, individuals with ASPD tend to be socially charming and may seek out social situations to manipulate or exploit others.
D. Blunted affect refers to a reduced emotional expression, which is not typically a prominent feature of antisocial personality disorder. Individuals with ASPD may exhibit superficial charm and can be engaging, although they may lack empathy or genuine emotional responsiveness.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Monitoring liver enzymes (AST, ALT) is typically not directly related to lithium therapy. Elevated liver enzymes may indicate liver damage from various causes, such as hepatitis or medication toxicity, but it is not a routine monitoring parameter for lithium.
B. Lithium can decrease the excretion of uric acid, potentially leading to elevated levels. Monitoring uric acid levels helps to detect hyperuricemia, which may contribute to conditions like gout. It's important to monitor this parameter periodically during lithium therapy.
C. ESR is a nonspecific marker of inflammation and is not specifically monitored in relation to lithium therapy. It is used to diagnose or monitor conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers, but it does not directly relate to lithium use.
D. Monitoring serum sodium levels is crucial during lithium therapy because lithium can affect renal function and electrolyte balance, including sodium levels. Hyponatremia is a potential adverse effect of lithium, and regular monitoring helps detect and manage this condition promptly.
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