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. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a commonly used psychotherapy approach for bipolar disorder. Attending a CBT class typically does not require specific informed consent beyond the general consent for treatment, as it involves non-invasive, non-experimental therapeutic techniques aimed at improving coping skills and managing symptoms. In most cases, attending therapy sessions like CBT is considered part of routine care for mental health conditions.
B. Experimental medications involve drugs or treatments that are not yet approved by regulatory agencies (such as the FDA in the United States) for general use. For a client to participate in a clinical trial or receive an experimental medication, they must provide explicit informed consent after being informed about the potential risks, benefits, and uncertainties associated with the treatment. This process ensures that the client understands they are participating in research and not receiving standard care.
C. Participating in a group exercise program is generally considered a routine therapeutic intervention aimed at promoting physical health and well-being. While informed consent is important for all interventions, including exercise programs, it typically involves providing general information about the program's goals, activities, and any potential risks. Clients are not consenting to experimental treatments or procedures that go beyond standard exercise protocols.

D. Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a treatment often used for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and other mood disorders. It involves exposure to specific wavelengths of light to regulate circadian rhythms and improve mood. While light therapy is a specialized treatment, it is a standard intervention for mood disorders and does not typically require separate informed consent beyond what is provided for standard medical treatments.

A. This statement indicates that the client has abstained from alcohol while on haloperidol decanoate. This is a positive statement and shows compliance with recommendations, as alcohol can interact with medications and affect their effectiveness or cause adverse reactions. There is no immediate concern with this statement.
B. Haloperidol can increase sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). Spending several hours outside gardening in the sun could potentially increase the risk of sunburn or other skin reactions due to photosensitivity. The nurse should address this statement by educating the client about the need to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak sunlight hours.
C. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is generally recommended for clients taking haloperidol, as it can occasionally cause hypotension (low blood pressure) as a side effect. Checking blood pressure once a week is a reasonable frequency, but the nurse should ensure that the client understands the signs and symptoms of hypotension and knows when to seek medical attention if blood pressure readings are abnormal.
D. Chewing sugar-free gum is generally not contraindicated while taking haloperidol. However, if the gum contains caffeine or other stimulants, it could potentially exacerbate certain side effects of the medication, such as tremors or restlessness. The nurse should inquire further about the type of gum being used and educate the client about potential interactions or side effects.