A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has alcohol use disorder about Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the program's basic concepts?

Choice A rationale:

Establishing trust with a caregiver in just five days is a challenging and unrealistic expectation for a child diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). Building trust takes time, especially for individuals with ASD who may struggle with social interactions and forming connections.

Choice B rationale:

Participating in a team sport with peers by day 4 might be too ambitious for a child with ASD. Children with ASD often require gradual exposure and support to engage in social activities, and such rapid participation might lead to anxiety and discomfort.

Choice C rationale:

While communication goals are important for children with ASD, expecting them to communicate all needs verbally by discharge might not be realistic. Many children with ASD use alternative forms of communication, such as gestures or assistive devices, which should also be considered as valid modes of expression.

Choice D rationale:

The realistic outcome for a child diagnosed with ASD is that they will perform most self-care tasks independently. ASD often affects social and communication skills, but children can learn and develop the ability to manage self-care tasks with proper support and intervention. This outcome aligns with the developmental trajectory of children with ASD.

Choice A rationale:

The ethical concept of autonomy centers on respecting an individual's right to make decisions about their own care, even if those decisions go against medical advice. By supporting the client's wish to refuse prescribed medications, the nurse is upholding the principle of autonomy. In mental health care, it is crucial to acknowledge and respect the client's right to make choices about their treatment, even if those choices might not align with the healthcare provider's recommendations. This action promotes patient empowerment and informed decision-making.

Choice B rationale:

While client feedback about satisfaction with the facility experience is important for quality improvement, it is not directly related to the ethical concept of autonomy. Autonomy pertains to the client's right to make decisions about their treatment and care, particularly when it comes to medical interventions and choices about their own body.

Choice C rationale:

Ensuring that the client understands expectations for client participation is more aligned with the principle of informed consent and effective communication rather than autonomy. While communication is important for respecting the client's autonomy, this choice does not directly demonstrate the core concept of allowing the client to make decisions about their treatment even if they differ from medical advice.

Choice D rationale:

Explaining unit rules and policies regarding unacceptable behaviors is related to maintaining a safe and structured environment within the psychiatric unit, but it does not directly reflect the ethical concept of autonomy. Autonomy pertains to decisions specifically related to the client's medical treatment and care, not just the rules of the unit.