The nurse is caring for a newly admitted client diagnosed with catatonic schizophrenia. Which of the following behaviors should the nurse document to be consistent with catatonic schizophrenia? The client:

Choice A Reason:
Providing sympathy can be comforting, but it may not always be conducive to establishing a therapeutic relationship. Sympathy involves feeling pity for someone else's misfortune, which can sometimes create a power imbalance or imply that the nurse sees the client as unable to cope. In contrast, empathy, which is understanding and sharing the feelings of another, is more aligned with therapeutic communication principles.

Choice B Reason:
Focusing on the words of the clients is important, but it is only one aspect of communication. Therapeutic relationships are built on understanding the full context of communication, including non-verbal cues and emotional undertones. Active listening involves not just hearing words, but also interpreting the message being conveyed and responding appropriately.

Choice C Reason:
Controlling the pace of establishing nurse-client relationships might be necessary in certain situations, but it should not be the primary action. Each client is unique, and the development of a therapeutic relationship will vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. The nurse should be flexible and patient, allowing the relationship to develop naturally.

Choice D Reason:
Demonstrating genuineness when communicating is fundamental to building trust and rapport, which are essential components of a therapeutic relationship. Genuineness involves being open, honest, and sincere. When nurses are genuine, clients are more likely to feel respected and understood, leading to a stronger therapeutic alliance.

Choice A reason:
While a mental health unit that includes milieu therapy may focus on stabilizing clients, it is not limited to those in an acute phase of mental illness. Milieu therapy is a comprehensive approach that can benefit individuals at various stages of their treatment.

Choice B reason:
Milieu therapy is not necessarily less intensive nor does it focus solely on one psychiatric illness or substance abuse disorder. It is a versatile treatment method that can be applied to a range of conditions and is integrated into the daily life of the unit.

Choice C reason:
This choice accurately reflects the essence of milieu therapy. It is a therapeutic approach where the environment is used as an integral part of treatment. The goal is to create a stable, adaptive reality through routines, boundaries, and open communication, fostering a sense of safety and support for therapeutic change.

Choice D reason:
Milieu therapy is not exclusively focused on long-term care but is adaptable to the needs of clients, whether they require short-term stabilization or long-term treatment. It is designed to help individuals learn healthier ways of thinking and behaving within a supportive community setting.