During a family therapy session led by a nurse, which of the following statements should be recognized as an example of effective communication among a mother, father, and two adolescent siblings?

Choice A rationale:

Avoids addressing the client's behavior: This response does not directly address the client's disrespectful tone of voice. It simply gives the client the schedule and expects them to comply. This could reinforce the client's belief that they can act out without consequences.

Misses an opportunity to set boundaries: Setting boundaries is essential when working with clients with BPD. This response does not establish a clear boundary regarding acceptable communication.

Does not promote therapeutic communication: This response does not encourage the client to share their feelings or explore the reasons behind their outburst. It shuts down communication rather than opening it up.

Choice B rationale:

Directly addresses the inappropriate behavior: This response assertively communicates to the client that their tone of voice is unacceptable. It sets a clear boundary regarding respectful communication.

Models appropriate communication: The nurse models respectful communication by using a calm and assertive tone of voice. This can help the client learn to communicate more effectively.

Promotes self-awareness: This response may prompt the client to reflect on their behavior and the impact it has on others. It can help them develop better self-awareness and emotional regulation skills.

Choice C rationale:

Focuses on the nurse's feelings: This response shifts the focus away from the client's behavior and onto the nurse's feelings. It can make the client feel defensive and less likely to engage in productive communication.

May escalate the situation: Asking "why" s can sometimes put clients on the defensive and lead to further conflict. It's generally more helpful to focus on the present behavior and its impact.

Choice D rationale:

Condescending and challenging: This response comes across as condescending and challenging. It's likely to make the client feel defensive and resentful.

Not therapeutic: This response does not promote a sense of trust or rapport between the nurse and the client. It's unlikely to lead to productive communication or behavior change.

The correct answer/s is Choice/s A, E, and G.

Choice A rationale: Administering 0.9% sodium chloride IV is a common practice in emergency departments to ensure the patient is well-hydrated. This is particularly important for patients experiencing acute mania, as they may have neglected their physical health, including hydration, during their manic episode.

Choice B rationale: Flumazenil is an antagonist for benzodiazepines and is typically used to reverse the sedative effects of benzodiazepines. It is not typically used in the treatment of bipolar disorder or acute mania.

Choice C rationale: Preparing the client for intubation is usually reserved for situations where the patient is unable to maintain their own airway or adequate ventilation. This is not typically necessary in cases of acute mania unless there are other complicating factors.

Choice D rationale: Beginning chest compressions is a response to cardiac arrest. There is no indication in the that the patient is experiencing cardiac arrest, so this would not be a typical anticipation for a patient experiencing acute mania.

Choice E rationale: Administering IV naloxone is done in cases of suspected opioid overdose. While it’s not directly related to treating acute mania, it’s possible that the patient could have comorbid substance use issues, given the high rate of comorbidity between bipolar disorder and substance use disorders.

Choice F rationale: Administering activated charcoal is done in cases of certain types of poisoning or drug overdose. It is not typically used in the treatment of bipolar disorder or acute mania.

Choice G rationale: Preparing the client for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) could be an appropriate anticipation for a patient experiencing acute mania. ECT is considered a highly effective treatment for severe mania, particularly when other treatments have failed or when rapid stabilization is required.