A withdrawn client diagnosed with schizophrenia expresses little emotion and refuses to attend group therapy. What altered component of the nervous system should a nurse recognize as being implicated in this behavior?

A. Enables the nurse to assign the appropriate Axis I diagnosis: Nurses typically do not assign Axis I diagnoses. Diagnosing mental health conditions is typically the responsibility of psychiatrists, psychologists, or other licensed mental health professionals. Nurses, however, play a crucial role in gathering information to contribute to the overall assessment process.

B. Enables the nurse to prescribe the appropriate medications: Nurses do not prescribe medications; that is the responsibility of physicians, nurse practitioners, or other prescribers. However, gathering client information is essential for providing accurate information to the prescriber, assisting in medication management, and monitoring for side effects.

C. Enables the nurse to modify behaviors related to personality disorders: While nurses can assist in the management of behaviors related to mental health conditions, the primary purpose of gathering client information is not to modify behaviors related to personality disorders. It is more about understanding the client's needs and tailoring care accordingly.

D. Enables the nurse to make sound clinical judgments and plan appropriate care: This is the correct answer. Gathering client information is a fundamental step in the nursing assessment process. It provides the necessary data for the nurse to make informed clinical judgments, identify health problems, and plan appropriate care interventions. It allows the nurse to understand the client's unique needs, preferences, and potential risks, leading to individualized and effective care planning.

A. Use touch to calm the client during periods of anxiety:

Individuals with paranoid schizophrenia may have heightened sensitivity to touch, and it can potentially exacerbate their anxiety or paranoia. This intervention may not be appropriate as it could escalate the client's distress.

B. Check the client's mouth after the client takes medication:

This is the best choice. People with paranoid schizophrenia may be prone to hoarding or pocketing medications. Checking the client's mouth ensures that the medication has been swallowed, promoting medication adherence and preventing potential harm.

C. Rotate the staff assignments for this client:

Consistency in caregivers is generally preferred for clients with schizophrenia to build trust and a therapeutic relationship. Constantly changing staff assignments can lead to increased anxiety and mistrust.

D. Assign an assistive personnel to feed the client at meal times:

While assistance with feeding may be needed, assigning an assistive personnel without direct supervision for a client with paranoid schizophrenia may not be the best approach. It's important to ensure the client's safety and monitor their behavior during meals.