A client admitted to the mental health unit starts to shout and scream at the nurse. Which approach is best for the nurse to take?
Tell the client they are out of control.
Stay quietly with the client.
Distract the client by offering finger foods.
Ignore the client's acting out behavior.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale: Telling the client they are out of control may escalate the situation and provoke further aggression. It is not a therapeutic or de-escalation technique.
Choice B rationale: Staying quietly with the client is a calm and non-confrontational approach. It allows the client to express emotions while conveying a supportive presence.
Choice C rationale: Distracting the client by offering finger foods may not be appropriate during a shouting episode, as it may be perceived as dismissive of the client's feelings or concerns.
Choice D rationale: Ignoring the client's acting-out behavior is not the best option. The nurse should acknowledge the client's emotions and provide support rather than ignoring the distress.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Asking the client about recent substance use is essential in assessing potential intoxication or withdrawal, which could contribute to the client's confused state. However, performing a mental status exam is the most important action to take.
Choice B rationale: The most important action for the nurse to take is to perform a mental status exam. This will help the nurse to assess the client's level of consciousness, orientation, memory, attention, mood, affect, thought process, and judgment. The mental status exam will also help the nurse to identify any signs of psychosis, delirium, dementia, or other mental disorders that may explain the client's behavior. Choice C rationale: Assessing the client from head-to-toe is a general nursing action but does not address the immediate need related to potential substance use. Choice D rationale: Determining the number of previous hospitalizations is relevant but does not address the current concern of substance use contributing to confusion.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam, a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including rebound anxiety,
insomnia, and potentially seizures. The statement reflects an understanding of the importance of gradual tapering and not abruptly stopping the medication. Choice B rationale: Reporting side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or sedation is important, but the key focus for long-term benzodiazepine use is the need to avoid abrupt discontinuation.
Choice C rationale: While attending therapy sessions is beneficial for managing anxiety, the question is specifically addressing the self-care goal related to medication use. Choice D rationale: Reporting any decrease in anxiety using a 10-point scale is relevant but not as crucial as emphasizing the avoidance of abrupt discontinuation.
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