A nurse on an inpatient mental health unit is monitoring a visit between a client who has a history of aggressive behavior and the client's partner. Which of the following observations should the nurse identify as an indication for potential violence?
The client is taking numerous deep, measured breaths
The client is calmly telling their partner that "the staff here is so controlling
The client is sitting with their head in their hands and appears to be crying
The client is pacing around the chair in which their partner is sitting
The Correct Answer is D
The client is pacing around the chair in which their partner is sitting.
Rationale:
- A. The client is taking numerous deep, measured breaths. This is not an indication of potential violence, but rather a coping strategy to calm down and regulate emotions.
- B. The client is calmly telling their partner that "the staff here is so controlling." This is not an indication of potential violence, but rather a expression of frustration or dissatisfaction with the treatment setting.
- C. The client is sitting with their head in their hands and appears to be crying. This is not an indication of potential violence, but rather a sign of sadness or distress.
- D. The client is pacing around the chair in which their partner is sitting. This is an indication of potential violence, as it shows restlessness, agitation, and possible intimidation of the partner.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Telling the client, "It's not your choice to be here, so you have to accept the treatment we plan for you," disregards the client's autonomy and right to make decisions about their own healthcare. In mental health settings, respecting a patient's autonomy and involving them in the decision-making process is crucial for ethical care. This statement does not address the client's fear or provide any reassurance.
Choice B rationale:
Choice C rationale:
Asking, "Why do you think your provider will prescribe you medications that will make you sleep?" attempts to explore the client's fear, but it may come across as dismissive or invalidating. It could make the client feel unheard or misunderstood, which is not ideal in this situation.
Choice D rationale:
Stating, "I will make sure that we respect your right to refuse medications," is the most appropriate response. It acknowledges the client's fear and reassures them that their autonomy will be respected. It opens the door for a discussion about the client's concerns, allowing them to express their fears and preferences. Respecting the client's right to refuse medications is fundamental to ethical nursing practice and patient-centered care.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
- A. Autonomy is the ethical principle that respects the right of clients to make their own decisions and choices regarding their health care. Informed consent is a process that ensures that clients are fully informed of the benefits, risks, alternatives, and consequences of a proposed treatment or procedure, and that they voluntarily agree to it.
- B. Nonmaleficence is the ethical principle that obliges health care providers to do no harm to clients, either intentionally or unintentionally. Informed consent does not directly promote this principle, although it may help to prevent harm by disclosing potential risks and complications.
- C. Justice is the ethical principle that requires fair and equal treatment of all clients, regardless of their personal characteristics, preferences, or values. Informed consent does not directly promote this principle, although it may help to ensure that clients are not coerced or manipulated into accepting a treatment or procedure that they do not want or need.
- D. Fidelity is the ethical principle that requires health care providers to be faithful and loyal to their clients, and to honor their commitments and promises. Informed consent does not directly promote this principle, although it may help to establish trust and rapport between clients and providers.

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