A charge nurse on a mental health unit is discussing legal issues with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements should the charge nurse include?
"A client loses the right to refuse prescribed medications when they are admitted involuntarily."
"Clients admitted involuntarily are considered to be incompetent to provide informed consent."
"A provider can write a prescription for restraints to use on a client on an as-needed basis."
"If a client threatens to seriously harm someone, the provider should notify that person of the threat."
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Clients admitted involuntarily still retain the right to refuse medications unless a court order or emergency situation overrides this right. This statement is incorrect.
Choice B reason: Involuntary admission does not automatically mean a client is incompetent. Competency must be legally determined by a court, not assumed based on admission status.
Choice C reason: Restraints cannot be prescribed on an as-needed basis. They require a specific, time-limited order and must be used only when absolutely necessary to protect the client or others.
Choice D reason: Providers have a duty to warn identifiable individuals if a client makes a credible threat of serious harm. This is a legal and ethical responsibility to protect others from danger, making this the correct statement.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Selective inattention occurs in moderate anxiety, where the client begins to block out or ignore certain stimuli due to difficulty focusing. It is not characteristic of mild anxiety, where awareness is still intact.
Choice B reason: Urinary frequency is a physical manifestation of severe anxiety due to autonomic nervous system activation. It is not expected in mild anxiety.
Choice C reason: Sharpened perceptions are characteristic of mild anxiety. The client is more alert, attentive, and able to focus better on the environment. Mild anxiety can enhance problem-solving and concentration.
Choice D reason: Voice tremors are associated with moderate to severe anxiety, where physiological symptoms become more pronounced. They are not typical of mild anxiety.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A verbal demand to remove restraints does not necessarily indicate improved behavioral control. The client may still pose a risk to themselves or others, and authoritative speech alone is not sufficient evidence of stabilization.
Choice B reason: Following commands and responding appropriately while restrained indicates improved behavioral regulation and decreased risk of harm. This suggests that the client may no longer require restraints, and the treatment plan should be reassessed to avoid unnecessary restriction of autonomy. Restraints are meant to be temporary and discontinued once the client demonstrates self-control.
Choice C reason: Requesting to speak with the doctor shows insight and willingness to engage in care but does not directly demonstrate behavioral stability. The client may still be agitated or unsafe, so this finding alone does not justify changing the treatment plan.
Choice D reason: Stating that they are not a danger does not guarantee safety. Clients with mania or agitation may lack insight into their condition, and verbal reassurance cannot replace objective behavioral assessment.
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