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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. "What have you done to change your situation?"
This response can come off as accusatory and might make the client feel judged. It's not the most therapeutic response in this situation.

B. "You should remove yourself from this situation now."
While removing oneself from a harmful situation is generally good advice, it might not be practical or safe in the heat of the moment. Moreover, this response doesn't address the underlying emotional distress the client is expressing.

C. “Are you thinking about harming yourself?"
This response directly assesses the client's suicidal ideation. It's essential to ask direct questions about self-harm when a person expresses feelings of hopelessness, as it provides an opportunity for the client to talk about their thoughts and feelings and for the nurse to assess the level of risk accurately.

D. “We will help get you through this. You'll be fine."
While offering support and reassurance is essential, it doesn't directly address the immediate concern of potential suicidal thoughts. The nurse should assess the client's safety first before providing reassurance.

A. Rambling speech B. Insomnia C. Rapid mood swings D. Sundowning

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Rambling speech
Rambling speech is not a typical finding associated with depression. It may indicate other conditions or issues.

B. Insomnia
Insomnia, or difficulty sleeping, is a common symptom of depression. Many individuals with depression experience trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or both.

C. Rapid mood swings
Rapid mood swings are not typically associated with depression. Depression often involves persistent low mood rather than rapid fluctuations.

D. Sundowning
Sundowning refers to a state of confusion and restlessness that occurs in the late afternoon and evening, often seen in individuals with dementia. While it can be related to mood disturbances, it's not specific to depression.

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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 antianxiety medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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