Group therapy is strongly encouraged, but not mandatory, in an inpatient psychiatric unit. The unit manager’s policy is that clients can make a choice about whether or not to attend group therapy. Which ethical principle does the unit manager’s policy preserve?

Choice A Reason:

Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used to manage acute agitation and anxiety. It works by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has a calming effect on the brain. Lorazepam is often administered in emergency situations to quickly reduce agitation and prevent escalation to violence. Its rapid onset of action makes it an ideal choice for managing acute episodes of agitation and potential assault.

Choice B Reason:

Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer used primarily for the treatment of epilepsy and bipolar disorder. While it can help manage mood swings and prevent manic episodes, it is not typically used for the immediate management of acute agitation or aggression. Its effects are not rapid enough to address an escalating situation effectively.

Choice C Reason:

Bupropion is an atypical antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder and to support smoking cessation. It works by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine, but it does not have the sedative properties needed to manage acute agitation or aggression. Therefore, it is not suitable for immediate intervention in a potentially violent situation.

Choice D Reason:

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mood disorders. While it is effective for long-term management of anxiety and depression, it does not have the rapid calming effects required for managing acute agitation or potential assault. SSRIs generally take several weeks to achieve their full therapeutic effect.

The correct answer is a, b.

Choice A Reason:

The statement “Organize clinical observations” is correct. One of the primary functions of the Mental Status Exam (MSE) is to systematically organize clinical observations. This includes assessing the client’s appearance, behavior, mood, and cognitive functions. By organizing these observations, healthcare providers can create a comprehensive picture of the client’s current mental state, which is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Choice B Reason:

The statement “Obtain information about the client’s medical history” is correct. The MSE often involves gathering detailed information about the client’s medical history, including past mental health issues, treatments, and any relevant medical conditions. This information helps in understanding the client’s baseline mental status and identifying any changes or abnormalities. It also aids in creating an effective treatment plan tailored to the client’s specific needs.

Choice C Reason:

The statement “Establish limit setting” is incorrect. While limit setting is an important aspect of managing certain mental health conditions, it is not a primary function of the MSE. Limit setting typically involves establishing boundaries and rules to manage behaviors, which is more relevant in therapeutic settings rather than during the assessment phase. The MSE focuses on evaluating the client’s current mental state rather than setting behavioral limits.

Choice D Reason:

The statement “Determine the client’s IQ” is incorrect. The MSE is not designed to measure a client’s intelligence quotient (IQ)4. Instead, it assesses cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and orientation. IQ tests are specialized assessments that require specific tools and are conducted separately from the MSE. The MSE provides a general overview of cognitive functioning but does not quantify intelligence.