A nurse is assisting with teaching a group of older adult clients about behavioral expectations. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to help eliminate barriers to learning?

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.

A. Adolescents who are preparing to leave home for college are generally more independent and have a higher level of verbal communication compared to younger children. They are less likely to be at high risk for physical abuse because they can potentially seek help or report abuse more readily.

B. School-age children typically have better verbal communication skills and may express their desires and feelings more clearly compared to younger children. They are generally less vulnerable to physical abuse compared to younger children who may not be able to communicate their experiences as effectively.
C. Preschoolers are at a higher risk for physical abuse compared to older children and adolescents. They are still developing verbal communication skills and may not be able to express their feelings or report abuse clearly. Their dependence on caregivers for basic needs and care also increases their vulnerability.
D. Toddlers, especially those with chronic health conditions like cystic fibrosis, are particularly vulnerable to physical abuse. Their young age, dependency on caregivers for basic needs, limited verbal communication skills, and potential health challenges increase their risk. Caregivers may feel overwhelmed or stressed by the child's condition, which could potentially contribute to abusive behaviors.