A nurse is caring for a client who states, "I don’t belong here." Which response is most appropriate?

Choice A reason: GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, reduces neuronal activity, not enhances cognitive functions like memory. Memory improvement is associated with cholinergic or glutamatergic systems, not GABA, making this choice incorrect for the expected effect of GABA potentiation.

Choice B reason: Fewer visual hallucinations are associated with antipsychotics affecting dopamine, not GABA. GABA’s inhibitory effects calm the brain but do not directly target psychotic symptoms like hallucinations, making this choice incorrect for the medication’s effect.

Choice C reason: GABA potentiation, as with benzodiazepines, enhances inhibitory effects, reducing neuronal excitability and calming the central nervous system. This directly alleviates anxiety, a primary therapeutic effect, aligning with GABA’s role in anxiety disorders, making this the correct choice.

Choice D reason: Increased alertness is contrary to GABA’s inhibitory effects, which promote sedation. Stimulants, not GABAergic drugs, enhance alertness, making this choice incorrect, as GABA potentiation leads to calming, not stimulating, effects on the brain.

Choice A reason: Peplau’s interpersonal relations theory emphasizes the nurse-patient relationship as a therapeutic tool. Reflecting on interactions helps nurses understand dynamics, build trust, and adjust approaches, fostering therapeutic growth, making this the correct choice aligned with her theory.

Choice B reason: Administering medications is a clinical task, not a core component of Peplau’s theory, which focuses on interpersonal dynamics. While important, it does not directly enhance the therapeutic relationship, making this choice incorrect for the theory’s focus.

Choice C reason: Documenting behaviors is standard practice but not central to Peplau’s theory, which prioritizes relational dynamics over administrative tasks. Documentation supports care but does not foster interpersonal growth, making this choice incorrect for the theory.

Choice D reason: Teaching coping skills is therapeutic but secondary to Peplau’s focus on the nurse-patient relationship itself. Reflection on interactions directly supports the theory’s emphasis on understanding relational dynamics, making this choice less relevant than self-reflection.