A nurse is caring for a client who has a substance use disorder. The client states, "The state took my child away after my overdose. I don't want to go on living without them." Which of the following therapeutic responses should the nurse make?
"If you attend counseling, you will get your child back."
"We can ask the physician to prescribe a sedative."
"Have you thought about harming yourself?"
"Can a family member try to obtain temporary custody of your child?"
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: This response is not therapeutic as it provides false assurance and may not be accurate. The return of the child depends on many factors beyond just attending counseling.
Choice B reason: While sedatives may be used to manage acute distress, this response does not address the client's expressed feelings of hopelessness and the risk of self-harm.
Choice C reason: This response directly addresses the client's statement about not wanting to live, which could indicate suicidal ideation. It is important to assess for the risk of self-harm or suicide.
Choice D reason: This response may be helpful in a long-term plan but does not address the immediate risk of harm to the client. It is also not guaranteed that a family member can obtain custody.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Constant talking is a common indicator of mania in individuals with bipolar disorder. During manic episodes, clients may experience pressured speech, which is fast, incessant, and difficult to interrupt. This symptom reflects the increased energy and reduced need for sleep that are characteristic of mania.
Choice B reason: While memory loss is not a definitive indicator of mania, it can occur in bipolar disorder. However, it is more commonly associated with either depressive episodes or the aftermath of a manic episode, rather than the manic phase itself.
Choice C reason: Excessive sleep is typically not associated with mania. In fact, a decreased need for sleep is one of the diagnostic criteria for a manic episode. Clients in a manic phase often feel rested after only a few hours of sleep.
Choice D reason: Expressing feelings of inferiority is not typically indicative of mania. Such feelings are more commonly associated with depressive episodes. Manic episodes often involve inflated self-esteem or grandiosity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Assisting the client to use new coping strategies is an important part of managing bipolar disorder, but it is not the first action a nurse should take when establishing a nurse-client relationship. Coping strategies will be more effective once a trusting relationship has been established and the client feels secure in sharing personal information.
Choice B reason: Establishing confidentiality guidelines with the client is the first and most crucial step in forming a therapeutic nurse-client relationship. It sets the foundation for trust and openness, ensuring the client understands that their personal information will be protected and shared only with those directly involved in their care.
Choice C reason: Helping the client to make behavioral changes is a goal in the treatment of bipolar disorder. However, before any interventions can be planned or implemented, the nurse must first establish a rapport and trust with the client, which begins with ensuring confidentiality.
Choice D reason: Sharing information with the client about their disorder is essential for their understanding and participation in care. However, this should occur after establishing a relationship in which the client feels comfortable and secure, knowing their privacy is respected.
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