The nurse has requested that the client take the food tray back into the kitchen area on the psychiatric unit. The client states, "I don't want to do it because I should be going home any minute now." To avoid a confrontation, the nurse takes the tray into the kitchen for the client. Which type of behavior is the nurse exhibiting?

Choice A Reason:
Taking steps to prevent the client from verbalizing delusional thoughts is not therapeutic. It can lead to the client feeling misunderstood and unsupported. Nurses should provide a safe environment where clients feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings.

Choice B Reason:
Allowing the client to select food from vending machines can be a temporary measure to address the immediate concern of the client’s fear of being poisoned. It provides a sense of control over their situation and may help to reduce anxiety related to eating.

Choice C Reason:
Simply explaining that others eat the same food and feel safe may not be effective for a client experiencing delusions. Delusions are fixed beliefs that are not easily changed by logical explanations or evidence to the contrary.

Choice D Reason:
Encouraging the client to discuss why someone would poison the food might validate the delusion and could reinforce the false belief. It’s important to acknowledge the client’s feelings without supporting the delusional content.

Choice A Reason: While this response may seem compassionate, it does not encourage the client to engage in activities that could benefit their mental health. Allowing the client to remain isolated may reinforce feelings of helplessness or depression. It is important to motivate clients to participate in therapeutic activities to promote their recovery.

Choice B Reason: This response is supportive and offers a compromise. It acknowledges the client’s current state and provides assistance, while also gently encouraging participation in activities. By offering help and allowing for rest afterward, the nurse is using an empathetic approach to facilitate the client’s involvement in the unit’s programs.

Choice C Reason: This response is coercive and could be considered a threat. It is not therapeutic to withhold basic needs such as meals as a form of punishment or to force compliance. Such an approach can damage the nurse-client relationship and is not conducive to the client’s recovery.

Choice D Reason: This response may come across as dismissive and demanding. It does not offer support or acknowledge the client’s feelings. Telling the client what they “need” to do without offering help or understanding can lead to resistance and a lack of trust in the nurse-client relationship.