Lorazepam (Ativan) is prescribed for a client experiencing severe acute anxiety. Most important teaching should include instructions to:

When caring for a client with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), it is important for the nurse to understand that the client’s compulsive behaviors are a way for them to manage their anxiety and distress. Rather than trying to confront or eliminate these behaviors, the nurse should work with the client to develop a schedule that allows time for their rituals while also incorporating other activities and treatments.

Option a. Confront the client about the senseless nature of repetitive behaviors is not a helpful intervention because it may increase the client’s anxiety and distress.

Option b. Isolate the client for a period of time is not a helpful intervention because it does not address the underlying causes of the client’s compulsive behaviors.

Option d. Set very strict limits on the behaviors so that the client can conform to the unit rules and schedules is not a helpful intervention because it may increase the client’s anxiety and distress and may interfere with their ability to participate in treatment.

a. Initiate one to one constant supervision around the clock: A client who has attempted suicide is at high risk for further harm, and close monitoring is necessary to prevent further attempts. Initiation of one-to- one constant supervision around the clock ensures that the client is continuously monitored, and any signs of suicidal ideation or behavior can be immediately addressed.

e. Check the environment for possible hazards: It is important to check the client's environment for potential hazards, such as sharp objects, cords, or other items that could be used to harm oneself. This step helps to ensure the client's safety and prevent further attempts.

The other options are not appropriate or necessary in this situation:

b. Ensure the client's hands are always visible: This action may be necessary if the client has a history of self-harm or aggressive behavior, but it is not specifically related to preventing suicide attempts.

c. Tuck bedcovers over client's hands and arms: This action may be necessary if the client has a history of self-harm, but it is not specifically related to preventing suicide attempts.

d. Inspect the client's personal belongings: While it may be important to inspect the client's personal belongings for any items that could be used for self-harm, this action is not as urgent as initiating constant supervision and checking the environment for hazards.

f. Assign the client to a private room: While a private room may be beneficial for the client's comfort and privacy, it is not specifically related to preventing suicide attempts.

g. Place only plastic utensils on the client's meal tray: This action is not specifically related to preventing suicide attempts, unless there is concern that the client may harm themselves with utensils.