Edited Text
A client with borderline personality disorder reported to the nurse in the clinic that they feel empty and anxious. The client wants to cut their arms. The nurse should first:
Assist the client to identify the triggering situation and choose a coping strategy.
Send the client to the crisis intervention unit for 23 hours of observation.
Restrain the client to prevent self-harm.
Advise the client to take an anxiolytic to decrease their anxiety level.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason: Assist the client to identify the triggering situation and choose a coping strategy
This is the correct answer. Assisting the client to identify the triggering situation and choose a coping strategy is a therapeutic approach that empowers the client to understand and manage their emotions. This intervention helps the client develop skills to cope with distressing feelings and reduces the likelihood of self-harm. It is essential to address the underlying issues and provide support in a constructive manner.
Choice B Reason: Send the client to the crisis intervention unit for 23 hours of observation
While sending the client to a crisis intervention unit may be necessary in some cases, it is not the first step. Immediate therapeutic intervention to help the client understand and manage their emotions is crucial. Observation alone does not address the underlying issues or provide the client with coping mechanisms.
Choice C Reason: Restrain the client to prevent self-harm
Restraint should be a last resort and only used when there is an immediate risk of harm that cannot be managed through other means. It is important to first attempt less restrictive interventions that help the client manage their emotions and behaviors.
Choice D Reason: Advise the client to take an anxiolytic to decrease their anxiety level
While medication can be part of the treatment plan, it should not be the first intervention. Addressing the client’s immediate emotional needs and helping them develop coping strategies is crucial. Medication can be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan but should not replace therapeutic interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
d. When the client last had a drink of alcohol
Explanation of Choices
Choice A Reason: If the Client Has a History of Addictive Behaviors
Assessing whether the client has a history of addictive behaviors is important as it provides insight into the client’s overall pattern of substance use and potential risk for relapse. However, while this information is valuable for developing a comprehensive treatment plan, it is not the most immediate concern during the initial admission assessment. The primary focus should be on identifying any immediate risks or needs, such as the potential for alcohol withdrawal.
Choice B Reason: Whether the Client Has Had Previous Rehabilitation for Alcoholism
Knowing whether the client has had previous rehabilitation for alcoholism can help the nurse understand the client’s treatment history and any previous interventions that may have been effective or ineffective. This information is useful for planning ongoing care and support. However, it is not the most critical factor to assess during the initial admission, as it does not directly address the client’s current physical and mental state.
Choice C Reason: Their Previous and Current Coping Skills
Evaluating the client’s previous and current coping skills is essential for understanding how they manage stress and triggers related to their alcoholism. This assessment can inform the development of personalized coping strategies and support mechanisms. Nonetheless, while important for long-term treatment planning, it is not the most urgent factor to assess during the initial admission.
Choice D Reason: When the Client Last Had a Drink of Alcohol
Determining when the client last had a drink of alcohol is the most important factor to assess during the initial admission. This information is crucial for predicting the onset of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, which can begin as early as 4 to 6 hours after the last drink. Early identification of potential withdrawal allows the healthcare team to implement appropriate monitoring and interventions to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications. Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening if not properly managed, making this assessment a top priority.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is a. The client’s behavioral change is expected after the time period of medication.
Choice A Reason:
This choice is correct because fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), typically takes about 4 to 6 weeks to start showing its full effects. The client’s statement, “I feel like a great weight is off my chest,” indicates a positive response to the medication, which aligns with the expected timeline for SSRIs to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. This behavioral change suggests that the medication is working as intended, helping to lift the depressive symptoms.
Choice B Reason:
This choice is incorrect and concerning. While it is true that some individuals may experience a temporary increase in energy before their mood improves, which could potentially increase the risk of suicide, the client’s positive statement does not necessarily indicate suicidal planning. It is important for healthcare providers to continuously monitor for any signs of suicidal ideation, but in this context, the client’s statement more likely reflects an improvement in their depressive symptoms.
Choice C Reason:
This choice is incorrect because there is no indication that the medication dosage should be decreased or that a mood stabilizer should be added. Fluoxetine is generally well-tolerated, and the client’s positive response suggests that the current dosage is effective. Mood stabilizers are typically used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, not major depressive disorder, unless there is a specific indication for their use.
Choice D Reason:
This choice is incorrect and indicates a misunderstanding of serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonin activity in the brain, often due to drug interactions or overdose. Symptoms include agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure4. The client’s statement of feeling relieved does not align with the symptoms of serotonin syndrome, which are generally severe and require immediate medical attention.
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