The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with catatonia. Which of the following should be a priority action by the nurse?
Schedule the client for a therapeutic group session.
Encourage the client to walk in the hallway.
Encourage the client to verbalize feelings at all times.
Offer small, frequent fluids throughout the day.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Scheduling the client for a therapeutic group session may not be appropriate as a priority action. Clients with catatonia often experience significant psychomotor disturbances, which can include immobility or stupor, making participation in group activities challenging and potentially distressing.
Choice B Reason:
Encouraging the client to walk in the hallway is not the most immediate concern. While mobility is important, the safety and medical stability of the client take precedence, especially considering the potential for immobility and resistance to movement in catatonic states.
Choice C Reason:
Encouraging the client to verbalize feelings at all times is not practical as a priority action. Catatonia can involve mutism or significantly reduced responsiveness, making it difficult for the client to express themselves verbally.
Choice D Reason:
Offering small, frequent fluids throughout the day is a priority action for a client with catatonia. Due to the potential for decreased oral intake and the risk of dehydration, ensuring the client receives adequate hydration is essential. This intervention addresses a basic physiological need and can prevent further complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While interviewing is a component of the nursing process, specifically during the assessment phase, describing the nursing process solely as a method for interviewing is incomplete. The nursing process encompasses much more, including diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Choice B Reason:
This statement accurately reflects the purpose of the nursing process. It is a systematic method used by nurses to assist clients in adapting to stressors, whether they are physical, psychological, or social. The process involves assessing the client's needs, diagnosing issues, planning and implementing interventions, and evaluating the outcomes.
Choice C Reason:
The nursing process does play a role in minimizing allegations of negligence by providing a structured approach to care, but this is not its primary purpose. The main goal is to deliver individualized and effective care to clients, not just to protect against legal issues.
Choice D Reason:
Supporting a psychiatric diagnosis is part of the nursing process, but the statement is too narrow to describe the overall purpose. The nursing process is used to plan and provide personalized care, which goes beyond just supporting a diagnosis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While suggesting the client discuss their concerns with their physician is a valid response, it may not provide the immediate emotional support the client is seeking. It's important for the nurse to address the client's current anxiety and provide reassurance before referring them to their physician.
Choice B Reason:
This response dismisses the client's fears and may come across as insensitive. It's crucial to acknowledge the client's emotions and provide a supportive environment where they feel heard and understood.
Choice C Reason:
Encouraging the client to express their fears allows the nurse to provide emotional support and helps in understanding the client's perspective. This approach fosters a therapeutic relationship and can help alleviate the client's anxiety.
Choice D Reason:
While recommending lifestyle changes is beneficial for overall health, this response does not address the client's immediate emotional needs. The nurse should first provide support for the client's expressed fears before discussing lifestyle modifications.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
