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During a home visit with a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia the patient tells the community health nurse, “I’m going to stop going to the clinic for my fluphenazine decanoate (Prolixin) shots because I think I’m okay now.” Which statement represents the best understanding of the effect of the patient’s decision on the prognosis?

  • A. “So you think you’re okay now. Let’s discuss why you’ve decided to stop taking your medication.”
  • B. “Your doctor knows what’s best for you. Just look at how well you’re feeling now so don’t stop taking the medication.”
  • C. “It’s true that our philosophy is to use the least amount of medicine that is needed to treat a problem. Tell me why you think that you are okay now.”
  • D. “I’m afraid that you’ll be sick again very soon if you aren’t taking your medication, but you are an adult and entitled to make your own decisions.”
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because it demonstrates therapeutic communication and empathy by acknowledging the patient's perspective and inviting further discussion. By exploring the patient's reasons for wanting to stop the medication, the nurse can address underlying concerns and provide education on the importance of medication adherence in managing schizophrenia.

Choice B is incorrect as it undermines the patient's autonomy and fails to address the patient's reasons for stopping the medication. Choice C is partially correct in acknowledging the patient's perspective but lacks the active engagement needed to assess and address the patient's decision. Choice D is incorrect as it expresses fear without exploring the patient's beliefs and reasons, which can lead to resistance and non-compliance.