A nurse is caring for a client who is involuntarily admitted for major depressive disorder and refuses to take a prescribed oral anti-anxiety medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Administer the medication to the client via IM injection.

Offer the client the medication at the next scheduled dose time.

Inform the client that they do not have the right to refuse the medication.

Implement consequences until the client takes the medication.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Administering the medication via IM injection against the client's will can be considered a violation of the client's rights, especially in the context of mental health care where consent and autonomy are highly valued. Involuntary treatment, including medication administration, should only be considered in situations where the client poses an immediate risk to themselves or others, which is not indicated in the scenario provided.

Choice B reason: Offering the medication at the next scheduled dose time respects the client's current decision to refuse the medication while also maintaining the prescribed treatment plan. It allows time for the client to reconsider their decision and provides an opportunity for the nurse to engage in further discussion about the benefits and importance of the medication, potentially addressing any concerns or fears the client may have.

Choice C reason: Informing the client that they do not have the right to refuse medication is incorrect and unethical. Patients have the right to informed consent, which includes the right to refuse treatment. This is particularly important in mental health care, where respecting the client's autonomy and rights is essential for building trust and promoting recovery.

Choice D reason: Implementing consequences for refusing medication is coercive and can damage the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the client. It may also lead to increased resistance and distrust from the client, which can negatively impact their overall care and treatment outcomes.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: While a unit secretary who speaks the same language could potentially communicate with the client, they may not be trained in medical terminology or confidentiality practices. Effective communication in healthcare settings requires more than just language proficiency; it involves understanding the nuances of medical dialogue and ensuring privacy and accuracy.

Choice B reason: Relying on another client for translation is not advisable. This could breach confidentiality, and the other client may not have the necessary skills to translate medical information accurately. Additionally, it places an undue burden on the client, who is there to receive support, not to provide services.

Choice C reason: A professional translator, preferably of the same gender as the client if it makes the client more comfortable, is the best option. Professional translators are trained to handle medical terminology and to navigate the cultural nuances that may arise in communication. They are also bound by confidentiality agreements to protect the client's privacy³.

Choice D reason: While a family member may be able to communicate effectively in the client's language, there are potential issues with privacy, accuracy, and dynamics that could affect the client's comfort and willingness to share openly in a support group setting. Family members may also unintentionally alter or withhold information based on their own biases or desires.

A. "If you attend counseling, you will get your child back." B. "We can ask the physician to prescribe a sedative." C. "Have you thought about harming yourself?" D. "Can a family member try to obtain temporary custody of your child?"

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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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A nurse is caring for a client who is involuntarily admitted for major depressive disorder and refuses to take a prescribed oral anti-anxiety medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Nursing Test Bank

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