A client on the inpatient psychiatric unit is scheduled for discharge tomorrow. Which of the following statements would indicate that the client is ready for discharge?

Choice A Reason:

Aggressive and angry.

Aggressive and angry behavior is not indicative of apathy. Apathy is characterized by a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. Aggression and anger are more likely to be associated with other symptoms of schizophrenia, such as paranoia or frustration, rather than apathy.

Choice B Reason:

Concerned over recent events.

Being concerned over recent events shows an active engagement with one’s environment and emotions. This is the opposite of apathy, which involves a lack of interest or concern. Therefore, this behavior does not align with the definition of apathy.

Choice C Reason:

Indifferent to their surroundings.

This is the correct response. Indifference to one’s surroundings is a clear sign of apathy. In schizophrenia, apathy is a common negative symptom and involves a diminished ability to initiate and sustain activities, including social interactions. This lack of interest or motivation is a key feature of apathy.

Choice D Reason:

Supportive in group.

Being supportive in a group setting indicates active participation and concern for others, which is not consistent with apathy. Apathy would manifest as a lack of engagement or interest in group activities and interactions.

Choice A Reason:

This will help with medication compliance.

This is the correct response. Long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics like risperidone IM are often used to improve medication compliance in patients who have difficulty remembering to take their oral medications regularly. By administering the medication every two weeks, the treatment team can ensure that the client receives a consistent dose, reducing the risk of relapse due to missed doses. This approach is particularly beneficial for clients with schizophrenia, as consistent medication adherence is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing hospitalizations.

Choice B Reason:

It will help him remember to take his medication.

While this statement is related to medication compliance, it is not entirely accurate. The purpose of switching to an injectable form is to eliminate the need for the client to remember to take daily doses. Instead, the healthcare provider administers the medication at regular intervals, ensuring adherence without relying on the client’s memory.

Choice C Reason:

This has a faster onset of action.

This statement is incorrect. The onset of action for long-acting injectable risperidone is not necessarily faster than the oral form. In fact, LAIs are designed to release the medication slowly over time to maintain stable blood levels. The primary advantage of LAIs is improved adherence, not a faster onset of action.

Choice D Reason:

This new medication is stronger and will clear his symptoms faster.

This statement is also incorrect. The strength of the medication and the speed at which it clears symptoms are not the primary reasons for switching to an injectable form. The goal is to ensure consistent medication levels and improve adherence, not to increase the potency or speed of symptom relief.