A nurse is caring for a client who becomes verbally abusive when the nurse enters her room. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

It is essential for the nurse's safety and well-being to remove themselves from a situation where the client is exhibiting verbally abusive behavior. Leaving the room allows the nurse to distance themselves from the confrontational environment and ensures their physical and emotional safety. Continuing to engage with the client may escalate the situation further and put the nurse at risk.

Incorrect:

B. Maintain eye contact until the behavior stops: Maintaining eye contact may be perceived as confrontational or provocative, which can further escalate the situation. It is advisable for the nurse to disengage from the client's presence to avoid potential harm.

C. Tell the client her behavior is disappointing: Engaging in a confrontational or judgmental response can exacerbate the client's anger or aggression. It is important for the nurse to maintain a professional and therapeutic approach while ensuring personal safety.

D. Punish the client for the behavior: Punishment is not an appropriate response to verbally abusive behavior. It can damage the nurse-client relationship and potentially worsen the client's emotional state. Promoting a supportive and therapeutic environment is key in managing challenging behaviors.

Validation is a technique used to acknowledge and validate the emotions and experiences of individuals with dementia, even if their thoughts or perceptions do not align with reality. In this scenario, the nurse responds by saying, "You miss your mother," which shows understanding and empathy toward the client's emotions. The nurse is validating the client's feelings rather than attempting to correct or redirect their thoughts.

A. Orientation to reality involves providing factual information and attempting to reorient individuals with dementia to the present time, place, and situation.

B. Remotivation is a technique used to stimulate memories and engage individuals with dementia in meaningful activities.

D. Guided imagery involves using vivid language and descriptive prompts to guide individuals into imagining pleasant or calming scenes.