A client who has bipolar disorder approaches the nurse and reveals fresh, self-inflicted, superficial cuts going up and down his right arm. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. To emphasize that the client is capable of consuming food without purging: This is the correct purpose of the intervention. By recalling a time when the client was able to consume food without engaging in purging behaviors, the nurse aims to highlight the client's capability to eat without resorting to unhealthy practices.

B. To incorporate specific foods into the meal plan to reflect pleasant memories: While incorporating pleasant memories into the meal plan can be a positive aspect of treatment, the primary purpose of the intervention described is to focus on the client's ability to eat without purging.

C. To assist the client to become more compliant with the treatment plan: While promoting compliance with the treatment plan is important, the specific intervention described is more about exploring the client's past experiences with eating without purging to reinforce the possibility of achieving healthier eating habits.

D. To gain additional information about the progression of the disease process: The intervention is not primarily aimed at gaining information about the progression of the disease process. Instead, it is focused on emphasizing the client's capacity to eat without engaging in purging behaviors.

A. "Why do you think you are being lied about and poisoned?": This question may come across as confrontational or challenging, potentially increasing the client's anxiety or defensiveness. It's important to acknowledge the client's feelings rather than questioning their beliefs directly.

B. "You are mistaken. Nobody is lying about you or trying to poison you.": This statement is dismissive and may cause the client to feel invalidated. It is crucial to acknowledge the client's feelings and experiences, even if they are not based on reality.

C. "Who is lying about you and trying to poison you?": This question may unintentionally reinforce the delusional thinking by suggesting that someone is indeed lying or trying to poison the client. It's essential to avoid validating or encouraging the delusional content.

D. "You seem to be having very frightening thoughts.": This statement acknowledges the client's emotions without directly challenging the delusional content. It shows empathy and creates an open and non-confrontational environment, allowing the client to express their feelings and experiences.