A nurse is caring for a client who attacked one of her friends and is admitted to the psychiatric unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Explain the client that the behavior was unacceptable.

Explore the truth of the client's statements.

Set behavioral limits for the client.

Establish a client relationship

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Explain to the client that the behavior was unacceptable: While addressing the behavior is important, it is more effective to first establish clear limits and boundaries to prevent further incidents.

B. Explore the truth of the client’s statements: This step involves assessing the client's statements and understanding their perspective, which is important but can be done after setting behavioral limits.

C. Set behavioral limits for the client: Establishing clear behavioral limits is crucial for maintaining safety and order in the psychiatric unit. It helps ensure that the client understands what is expected of them and the consequences of unacceptable behavior. This is particularly important if the client has exhibited aggressive behavior, as it helps prevent further incidents and maintains a safe environment for everyone.

D. Establish a client relationship: Building a therapeutic relationship is essential for effective treatment, but it should be done in the context of a safe environment where clear behavioral expectations have already been established.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) "I haven't gotten my period yet, and all my friends have theirs."

While the concern about not having gotten her period yet is a valid one, it's a common experience during adolescence. Variability in the timing of puberty is normal, and addressing this concern might involve providing reassurance and education about the natural range of development.

B) "There's a big pimple on my face, and I worry that everyone will notice it."

While concerns about physical appearance are common during adolescence, they are less urgent in terms of emotional and psychological well-being. Addressing body image issues is important, but the statement about lack of social acceptance and reciprocal liking indicates potentially deeper emotional challenges.

C) "None of the kids at this school like me, and I don't like them either."

Explanation:

Adolescence is a time of significant emotional and social development. The statement about not being liked by other students and not liking them in return indicates potential social isolation and difficulties in forming positive relationships. Adolescents often seek social acceptance and peer relationships are crucial for their well-being and development.

D) "My parents treat me like a baby sometimes."

This statement suggests a common parent-adolescent dynamic where there might be conflicts about independence and autonomy. While these feelings are valid, they don't necessarily reflect a higher priority concern related to social isolation and peer relationships.

A. "Are you thinking of harming yourself?" B. "Do you really think your family would be better off without you?" C. "When did you first start feeling this way?" D. "Tell me what is happening right now."

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. "Are you thinking of harming yourself?": Correct

This is the priority response because it directly addresses the client's statement about being better off gone, which raises concerns about potential suicidal thoughts. Asking this question allows the nurse to assess the client's risk of self-harm or suicide and take appropriate actions to ensure their safety.

B. "Do you really think your family would be better off without you?": Incorrect

While this response attempts to engage the client in a conversation, it doesn't directly address the immediate concern of suicidal thoughts. It's important to prioritize assessing the client's safety before exploring their feelings about their family's perspective.

C. "When did you first start feeling this way?": Incorrect

While understanding the client's history and the onset of their feelings is important, it's not the priority response in this situation. Assessing the client's risk of harm takes precedence over gathering historical information.

D. "Tell me what is happening right now.": Incorrect

This response doesn't directly address the client's statement about being better off gone and doesn't assess the immediate risk of self-harm or suicide. While understanding the client's current situation is valuable, safety concerns should be addressed first.

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A nurse is caring for a client who attacked one of her friends and is admitted to the psychiatric unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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