A male client is admitted to the unit with a possible diagnosis of delirium. Which statement by the client's wife best supports the diagnosis?

The correct answer is choice B: Is an aversion therapy that produces unpleasant consequences for undesirable behavior.

Choice A rationale:

Decreases or eliminates a behavior by introducing a more adaptive behavior that is incompatible with the unacceptable behavior. Choice A refers to the technique of "differential reinforcement," where an undesirable behavior is replaced by a more appropriate behavior. This technique involves reinforcing positive behaviors while ignoring or providing minimal attention to negative behaviors. It is not the same as covert sensitization.

Choice B rationale:

Is an aversion therapy that produces unpleasant consequences for undesirable behavior. Covert sensitization is a form of aversion therapy used to eliminate unwanted behaviors by associating them with unpleasant imagery or thoughts. It's based on the principle that if a person can associate a negative response with a certain behavior, they will be less likely to engage in that behavior. This technique is used for behaviors like addiction or certain compulsive behaviors.

Choice C rationale:

An aversive stimulus or punishment during which the client is removed from the environment where the unacceptable behavior is being exhibited. Choice C refers to "time-out," a technique used to decrease undesirable behaviors by removing the individual from the environment where the behavior is occurring. This is often used with children and involves giving them a brief break from a situation to help them calm down. It's not the same as covert sensitization.

Choice D rationale:

Relies on an individual's imagination rather than medication for unpleasant symptoms. Choice D is not directly related to covert sensitization. Covert sensitization involves creating a negative association with a behavior using mental imagery. It's not about relying on imagination instead of medication.

Choice A rationale:

Similar to the explanation in , this statement requires intervention. It reflects a judgmental and prescriptive approach, which is not conducive to a therapeutic conversation. It implies that the nurse knows what the client should do, undermining the client's autonomy and self-discovery process.

Choice B rationale:

Recognizing that relationship difficulties are stressful and require effort to resolve is a valid and supportive statement. It acknowledges the challenges the client is facing and does not impose a specific solution.

Choice C rationale:

Suggesting the development of a communication plan is a proactive and therapeutic response. It empowers the client to work collaboratively toward improving their marital situation.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging the client to share more about their concerns promotes open communication and allows the nurse to better understand the client's perspective. This response is client-centered and supportive.