A nurse asks a client who is suicidal to make a safety contract, but the client declines. Which of the following actions should the nurse identify as the priority?
- A. Lock the doors to the unit and secure windows so they cannot be opened.
- B. Provide the client with plastic eating utensils for meals.
- C. Remove any objects from the client's environment that could be used for self-harm.
- D. Assign a staff member to stay with the client at all times.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A client who refuses a safety contract is at high risk, requiring constant supervision to ensure safety.
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A nurse in a hospital is caring for a client who has agoraphobia. Which of the following statements by the client indicates understanding of the goals of treatment?
- A. "I plan to sit on a park bench for a few minutes each day."
- B. "I can try participating in group therapy every week."
- C. "I will join a book club in my neighborhood."
- D. "I should avoid entering elevators and other closed spaces."
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "I plan to sit on a park bench for a few minutes each day." This statement indicates the client's understanding of gradual exposure therapy, a common treatment for agoraphobia. Exposure to feared situations in a controlled manner helps desensitize the client to their anxiety triggers. Sitting on a park bench signifies a small step towards facing the fear of open spaces. Choices B, C, and D do not directly address the core issue of agoraphobia or the specific treatment approach. Group therapy and joining a book club may be beneficial but do not target the fear of open spaces. Avoiding elevators and closed spaces is a safety behavior that reinforces the fear and hinders recovery.
A nurse is caring for a client who has bipolar disorder and is in the manic phase. The client says he is bored. Which of the following activities is appropriate for the nurse to suggest to this client?
- A. Watching a video with a group in the day room
- B. Walking with the nurse in the courtyard
- C. Participating in a basketball game in the gym
- D. Joining a group discussion about a local election
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Walking with the nurse in the courtyard. During the manic phase, individuals with bipolar disorder may have high energy levels and increased impulsivity. Walking in the courtyard with the nurse provides a safe outlet for physical activity and helps to channel excess energy in a constructive manner. This activity also allows for one-on-one interaction, which can help the client focus and reduce boredom. Other options like watching a video with a group or participating in a basketball game may be too stimulating and could exacerbate manic symptoms. Joining a group discussion about a local election might be overwhelming and less effective in managing the client's energy level and attention.
A nurse is caring for an adolescent client who has a new diagnosis of schizophrenia. The client's parents are tearful and express feelings of guilt. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
- A. "You said that you feel guilty about your daughter's diagnosis. Let's talk about what is causing you to feel this way."
- B. "You should not feel guilty about your daughter's diagnosis. Schizophrenia is unpreventable."
- C. "I’m sure your daughter’s diagnosis is very difficult to deal with, but everything will be all right once she receives the proper treatment."
- D. "Your provider has explained the causes of schizophrenia. Why do you feel guilty about your daughter's diagnosis?"
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Encouraging the parents to discuss their feelings helps with emotional processing and coping.
A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who is experiencing acute alcohol withdrawal. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
- A. Implement seizure precautions.
- B. Insert an IV access site.
- C. Obtain a blood specimen.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Implement seizure precautions. The priority in caring for a client experiencing acute alcohol withdrawal is to prevent potential life-threatening complications like seizures. Implementing seizure precautions involves ensuring a safe environment, such as padding the bed and removing any harmful objects. This step takes precedence over inserting an IV access site (B) or obtaining a blood specimen (C) because seizures pose an immediate risk to the client's safety. It is crucial to address the most urgent need first to ensure the client's well-being.
A nurse is assessing an adolescent client who has anorexia nervosa. Which of the following client statements is a sign of cognitive distortion?
- A. "I like to cut my food into small pieces."
- B. "I really need to get into shape."
- C. "If I eat one piece of candy, I may as well eat ten."
- D. "I can't afford to gain weight."
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Cognitive distortions involve irrational thought patterns, such as all-or-nothing thinking.