A client with a history of schizophrenia is admitted to the psychiatric care unit for aggressive behavior, auditory hallucinations, and potential for self harm. The client has not been taking medications as prescribed and insists that the food has been poisoned and refuses to eat. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Tell the client that irrational thinking is a symptom of schizophrenia.
Assure the client that all food served in the hospital is safe to eat.
Provide the client with food in unopened containers.
Obtain an order for a tube feeding for the client.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale: Telling the client that irrational thinking is a symptom of schizophrenia may not be well-received and could lead to increased resistance. It is essential to address the immediate concern of food refusal.
Choice B rationale: Assuring the client that all food served in the hospital is safe to eat may not be sufficient, especially if the client has strong delusional beliefs about poisoning. Offering food in unopened containers is a more practical approach. Choice C rationale: Providing the client with food in unopened containers is a reasonable intervention. It addresses the client's concerns about poisoning and ensures that the food is perceived as safe.
Choice D rationale: Obtaining an order for a tube feeding for the client may be considered if the client continues to refuse solid food. However, providing food in unopened containers is an initial step to encourage the client to eat.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: "You may think you are fat, but you look thin to me" is dismissive and may invalidate the client's feelings. It is essential to explore the client's emotions rather than providing a judgmental response.
Choice B rationale: "There are consequences for not eating" is confrontational and may increase the client's anxiety. A more therapeutic approach involves exploring the client's feelings and concerns about eating.
Choice C rationale: "Explain how you feel when it is time to eat" is an open-ended and non-judgmental response. It encourages the client to express her emotions, providing valuable information for further assessment and care planning.
Choice D rationale: "You must eat or you will become very sick" is directive and may increase resistance. It is essential to explore the client's feelings and collaborate on a plan rather than issuing directives.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam, a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including rebound anxiety,
insomnia, and potentially seizures. The statement reflects an understanding of the importance of gradual tapering and not abruptly stopping the medication. Choice B rationale: Reporting side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or sedation is important, but the key focus for long-term benzodiazepine use is the need to avoid abrupt discontinuation.
Choice C rationale: While attending therapy sessions is beneficial for managing anxiety, the question is specifically addressing the self-care goal related to medication use. Choice D rationale: Reporting any decrease in anxiety using a 10-point scale is relevant but not as crucial as emphasizing the avoidance of abrupt discontinuation.
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