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
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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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Nystagmus: Nystagmus is not a typical manifestation of alcohol withdrawal. It is more commonly associated with intoxication or neurological conditions. Therefore, it is not included in the effects of alcohol withdrawal.
B. Illusions: Illusions (misinterpretations of external stimuli) are common during alcohol withdrawal, especially in severe cases such as withdrawal delirium (delirium tremens). Clients may misinterpret shadows or objects as threatening.
C. Polyphagia: Polyphagia (excessive eating) is not a recognized manifestation of alcohol withdrawal. Clients with withdrawal may experience nausea or a lack of appetite rather than an increased appetite.
D. Tremors: Tremors, often called "the shakes," are one of the most common early signs of alcohol withdrawal. They usually begin within hours after alcohol cessation.
E. Seizures: Seizures, specifically generalized tonic-clonic seizures, are a serious complication of alcohol withdrawal. They can occur within 6–48 hours after the last drink and are part of alcohol withdrawal syndrome.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This action might be premature. MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) are a class of antidepressants with specific dietary and medication interactions. They are typically considered when other classes of antidepressants have not been effective. It's important to exhaust other options before considering a switch to MAOIs.
B. Explain that antidepressants often take several weeks to be fully effective:
Explanation: Correct Answer. This is an appropriate response. Antidepressants, including citalopram, can take several weeks to show their full therapeutic effects. It's common for some symptoms to improve before others. Educating the client about the delayed onset of action is important to manage their expectations.
C. Tell the client that the provider will need to change citalopram to a different medication:
Explanation: It might be too early to consider changing the medication after just two weeks, especially since the client reports an improved appetite. Changes in dosage or medication should ideally be discussed with the provider after an adequate trial period.
D. Recommend a sleep study be done on the client:
Explanation: While sleep problems can be associated with depression, it might not be the most appropriate next step based solely on the information provided. It's more important to address the ongoing depressive symptoms before focusing solely on sleep.

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