A nurse is caring for a client who is involuntarily admitted for major depressive disorder and refuses to take a prescribed oral antianxiety medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Implement consequences until the client takes the medication.
Inform the client that he does not have the right to refuse the medication.
Offer the client the medication at the next scheduled dose time.
Administer the medication to the client via IM injection.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Implement consequences until the client takes the medication:
Punitive measures should never be used in healthcare, especially in the context of mental health treatment. Coercion and punitive consequences can lead to mistrust and hinder the therapeutic relationship, which is crucial in mental health care.
B. Inform the client that he does not have the right to refuse the medication:
While it's important for the client to understand the potential consequences of refusing medication, it's also crucial to respect the client's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own treatment. Involuntary admission doesn't negate the individual's right to be informed and involved in their care decisions to the extent they are able.
C. Offer the client the medication at the next scheduled dose time:
Respecting the client's autonomy is a fundamental ethical principle in nursing care. The nurse should continue to offer the medication to the client at the scheduled times. It's essential to maintain open communication with the client, addressing concerns and attempting to build trust, which can sometimes lead to the client accepting the medication voluntarily.
D. Administer the medication to the client via IM injection:
Administering medication against a patient's will is ethically and legally questionable without proper authorization, especially if the patient is not an immediate danger to themselves or others. This approach should be avoided whenever possible.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will learn how to voluntarily control my blood pressure and heart rate."
This statement indicates the client might be referring to techniques such as biofeedback or relaxation exercises that involve controlling physiological responses consciously. While these are relaxation techniques, they are not specifically cognitive reframing. Cognitive reframing focuses on changing negative thought patterns.
B. "I will practice replacing negative thoughts with positive self-statements."
This statement accurately reflects the concept of cognitive reframing. It involves identifying negative or unhelpful thoughts and consciously replacing them with positive, empowering, or rational thoughts. This technique is widely used in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and various mental health issues.
C. "I will focus on a mental image while concentrating on my breathing."
This statement describes a relaxation technique where individuals visualize a calming image and synchronize their breathing with this mental image. While this practice is beneficial for relaxation, it is not cognitive reframing. Cognitive reframing specifically deals with changing the content of thoughts, not necessarily focusing on mental imagery.
D. "I will progressively relax each of my muscle groups when feeling stressed."
This statement describes a relaxation technique known as progressive muscle relaxation. It involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups to reduce physical tension and stress. While this technique is excellent for relaxation, it is not cognitive reframing. Cognitive reframing pertains to changing thoughts, not physical sensations.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Discuss the provider's goals for the client's care:
Discussing the provider's goals is essential, but it may not directly address the client's concerns about medication adherence. While these goals are important for the overall care plan, it's crucial to first engage in a conversation with the client about their specific issues and challenges related to taking the prescribed medication. The client's perspective and concerns should be a priority.
B. Ask the client if the medication is causing adverse effects:
This is the recommended choice. Inquiring about adverse effects is important to understand the client's experience with the medication. Some clients may discontinue their medication due to intolerable side effects. By addressing this concern, the nurse can provide education, seek potential solutions, and collaborate with the healthcare team to adjust the medication or dosage. Open communication helps to identify and mitigate barriers to medication adherence.
C. Tell the client they will be admitted to an inpatient care facility if they do not take the medication:
This choice involves a coercive and threatening approach. It's not an ethical or therapeutic method to promote medication adherence. Threatening involuntary hospitalization can create fear and mistrust, potentially leading to further non-compliance and damaging the therapeutic relationship. It should be avoided.
D. Request the provider prescribe a second antipsychotic medication to the client:
This option is not appropriate at this stage. Adding another medication without addressing the underlying issue of non-adherence and without assessing the client's response to the current medication is not advisable. It can complicate the medication regimen, potentially worsen side effects, and doesn't address the primary concern, which is the client's non-adherence to their current medication. It's important to understand the reasons for non-adherence before considering additional medications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.