A client with depression is admitted for voluntary treatment. While in the hospital, the client makes several comments about leaving the facility and kiling themselves with their gun. Which is the most appropriate action by the nurse when the client requests to leave against medical advice?
Call security and ask them to detain the client from leaving.
Contact the client's family to request they convince the client to stay.
Allow the client to leave, with a referral to community resources for follow-up care.
Contact the psychiatrist for initiation of commitment proceedings.
The Correct Answer is D
In this situation, the client's safety is of utmost importance. Expressing a desire to leave the facility and harm oneself with a gun raises serious concerns about the client's safety and the risk of harm to themselves. Initiating commitment proceedings, also known as involuntary hospitalization or psychiatric hold, allows the facility to legally detain the client temporarily for their protection and evaluation by mental health professionals. This allows for a thorough assessment of the client's mental health status and the formulation of a comprehensive treatment plan to ensure their safety.
Options A, B, and C are not appropriate in this situation:
A. Calling security to detain the client may escalate the situation and could potentially lead to increased risk of harm.
B. Contacting the client's family may not be enough to ensure the client's safety, and it is essential to involve mental health professionals in evaluating the client's risk.
C. Allowing the client to leave without addressing their expressed suicidal ideation is not safe, as the client may be at high risk for self-harm or suicide. Simply referring them to community resources without further evaluation and intervention is not sufficient to address the immediate safety concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Using active listening techniques and providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment can promote the client's ability to express their feelings. Many clients facing end-stage illnesses, such as alcoholic cirrhosis, may experience a range of emotions and find it difficult to talk about their illness or impending loss of life. By being present, attentive, and using silence when appropriate, the nurse allows the client the space and time they need to process their thoughts and emotions and feel comfortable expressing their feelings when they are ready.
Incorrect:
Option A may come across as confrontational and judgmental, which can hinder the client's willingness to share their feelings.
Option C may be appropriate if the client requests spiritual or religious support, but it should not be assumed as the primary intervention for promoting emotional expression.
Option D can be seen as dismissive and insensitive to the client's emotional needs, and it may not be helpful in encouraging the client to open up about their feelings.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
When a client has an angry outburst and then quickly appears calmer and receptive to input from the nurse, it is important for the nurse to address the underlying cause of the outburst and explore the client's feelings and emotions. By asking, "What happened that got you so upset?", the nurse is inviting the client to express their feelings and share what triggered their anger. This can help the nurse understand the client's perspective, provide appropriate support, and potentially de-escalate any remaining tension or frustration.
The other options are inappropriate because:
A- "We will have to talk about this later." This response may make the client feel dismissed or that their feelings are not being heard or understood.
C- "You really scared me. I'm glad you are okay." While this response acknowledges the client's emotional state, it centers the focus on the nurse's feelings rather than exploring the client's perspective or emotions.
D- "Your behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated." This response is confrontational and judgmental, which can escalate the situation and potentially trigger further defensive reactions from the client.
Overall, a non-judgmental and empathetic approach that focuses on understanding the client's feelings and experiences is more likely to foster open communication and provide the client with a safe space to express themselves.
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