A nurse is planning care for a group of clients on a mental health unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take to create a therapeutic environment?

Choice A Reason:
Assessing the client's readiness for therapy is a crucial role of the nurse in CBT. It involves determining whether the client is willing and able to participate in therapy, understands the CBT process, and is motivated to engage in the cognitive and behavioral changes that CBT requires. This assessment helps ensure that the therapy is client-centered and tailored to the individual's specific needs and readiness level.

Choice B Reason:
While involving the client's family can be beneficial in therapy, implementing therapeutic techniques that involve only the client's family does not align with the primary goals of CBT. CBT focuses on the individual's patterns of thinking and behavior, and while family support can be part of the process, the nurse's role is not limited to family involvement alone.

Choice C Reason:
Educating the client to identify and challenge negative thoughts is a fundamental aspect of CBT. The nurse helps the client recognize their automatic negative thoughts, understand the impact these thoughts have on their emotions and behavior, and learn to challenge and reframe these thoughts in a more positive and realistic way.

Choice D Reason:
Evaluating to determine the effectiveness of the actions is part of the nurse's role in CBT. This involves monitoring the client's progress, assessing the outcomes of the interventions, and making necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Evaluation is an ongoing process that ensures the therapy is effective and meets the client's needs.

Choice E Reason:
Collaborating with the client to set achievable goals is essential in CBT. The nurse works with the client to establish clear, measurable, and attainable goals that guide the therapy process. These goals provide direction and motivation, and they help the client focus on making specific changes that will improve their mental health.

Choice A reason:
Waiting for the client to initiate interaction may result in missed opportunities to build trust and rapport. Clients who are suspicious may never feel comfortable enough to initiate interaction, which could hinder their care and treatment.

Choice B reason:
Adopting a neutral attitude when providing care is recommended for clients who are suspicious. It helps to establish a non-threatening environment and conveys a sense of respect for the client's need for space and boundaries.

Choice C reason:
Disclosing personal information to demonstrate approachability can backfire with clients who are suspicious. It may be perceived as intrusive or as an attempt to elicit personal information from them in return.

Choice D reason:
Approaching the client frequently throughout the day for brief interactions might overwhelm and increase the client's suspicion. It's important to respect the client's space and allow them to set the pace for interactions.