A nurse is caring for a client who has a mental illness and is without housing. The nurse should identify that which of the following interprofessional team members can help the client find housing?

A. The voices are telling me to harm myself: This statement indicates command hallucinations with a potential for harm. It suggests that the patient is receiving directives to harm themselves, which poses an immediate safety concern. Implementing safety measures, such as close monitoring, removal of harmful objects, and involving appropriate professionals, is essential to protect the patient from self-harm.

B. I hear voices: While hearing voices (auditory hallucinations) is a symptom that requires assessment and intervention, the nature of the voices is crucial in determining the level of risk. This statement, on its own, does not provide information about the content or potential harm associated with the voices.

C. I see birds flying in the room: This statement describes a visual hallucination, which, while potentially distressing, does not necessarily pose an immediate safety risk to the patient or others. Visual hallucinations may be less likely to necessitate immediate safety measures compared to command hallucinations.

D. The voices don't stop and continue all day: This statement suggests persistent auditory hallucinations, but without information about the content of the voices, it does not specifically indicate a risk of harm. While it may be distressing for the patient, the urgency for safety measures depends on the nature of the auditory content.

While all the outcomes are important in the overall care of a client with bipolar disorder, the safety of the client takes precedence, especially during the acute phase of the disorder. Bipolar disorder is characterized by mood swings that can include episodes of mania, which may involve risky behaviors or even thoughts of self-harm.
A. The client will remain safe throughout hospitalization: This is the priority outcome. Ensuring the safety of the client during hospitalization involves monitoring for any signs of self-harm or harm to others, managing any acute manic or depressive symptoms, and providing a secure environment.

B. The client will accomplish activities of daily living independently by discharge: While independence in activities of daily living is a valuable outcome, it may not be the immediate priority during the acute phase of bipolar disorder. Addressing safety and stabilization come first.

C. The client will use problem-solving to cope adequately after discharge: Coping skills are important for long-term management, but ensuring safety and stabilization during the hospitalization phase takes precedence. Coping skills can be addressed as part of the overall treatment plan.

D. The client will verbalize feelings during group sessions by discharge: Expression of feelings is an important aspect of mental health treatment, but safety and stabilization remain the priority, especially during the acute phase of bipolar disorder.