A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has bipolar disorder and whose admission was voluntary. For which of the following interventions should the nurse confirm that the client has given informed consent?

A. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a commonly used psychotherapy approach for bipolar disorder. Attending a CBT class typically does not require specific informed consent beyond the general consent for treatment, as it involves non-invasive, non-experimental therapeutic techniques aimed at improving coping skills and managing symptoms. In most cases, attending therapy sessions like CBT is considered part of routine care for mental health conditions.
B. Experimental medications involve drugs or treatments that are not yet approved by regulatory agencies (such as the FDA in the United States) for general use. For a client to participate in a clinical trial or receive an experimental medication, they must provide explicit informed consent after being informed about the potential risks, benefits, and uncertainties associated with the treatment. This process ensures that the client understands they are participating in research and not receiving standard care.
C. Participating in a group exercise program is generally considered a routine therapeutic intervention aimed at promoting physical health and well-being. While informed consent is important for all interventions, including exercise programs, it typically involves providing general information about the program's goals, activities, and any potential risks. Clients are not consenting to experimental treatments or procedures that go beyond standard exercise protocols.

D. Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is a treatment often used for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and other mood disorders. It involves exposure to specific wavelengths of light to regulate circadian rhythms and improve mood. While light therapy is a specialized treatment, it is a standard intervention for mood disorders and does not typically require separate informed consent beyond what is provided for standard medical treatments.

A. This response could come across as blaming or judgmental. It implies that the client made a mistake by not seeking help, which can exacerbate feelings of guilt or shame. It does not promote an open dialogue or supportive environment.
B. This response demonstrates empathy and a willingness to understand the client's emotional state leading up to the suicide attempt. It encourages open communication about the client's feelings and experiences, which is crucial for assessment and intervention planning.
C. This response suggests that the nurse is making assumptions about the client's emotions without allowing the client to express themselves fully. While guilt may be a common emotion after a suicide attempt, it's important for the nurse to first listen to the client's own description of their feelings.
D. This response minimizes the seriousness of the client's experience and emotions. It may invalidate the client's feelings of distress or despair that led to the suicide attempt. Such a response does not acknowledge the gravity of the situation or provide the necessary support.