A home health nurse drives up to the house of her client, who has schizophrenia with manic episodes. The client is sitting on his front porch with a shotgun in his arms. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Stop the car in the client's driveway and call the authorities.
Honk the car horn to get the client's attention.
Calmly speak the client's name out of the car window.
Keep driving in a path that is going away from the client's house.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Stop the car in the client’s driveway and call the authorities. This statement is wrong because stopping in the driveway could escalate the situation and put the nurse in immediate danger. The nurse should avoid any actions that might provoke the client or put herself in harm’s way.
Choice B reason:
Honk the car horn to get the client’s attention. This statement is wrong because honking the horn could startle the client, potentially leading to a violent reaction. Sudden loud noises can exacerbate agitation in individuals with schizophrenia.
Choice C reason:
Calmly speak the client’s name out of the car window. This statement is wrong because engaging with the client directly while they are armed is unsafe and could provoke aggression. The nurse should avoid direct interaction until the situation is secured.
Choice D reason:
Keep driving in a path that is going away from the client’s house. This is the correct action as it ensures the nurse’s safety by distancing herself from the potentially dangerous situation. Once at a safe distance, the nurse can contact the authorities for assistance.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
The statement that clients can be hospitalized for as long as the provider deems necessary is not entirely accurate. Involuntary admission is regulated by law, and there are specific criteria and time frames that must be adhered to. For example, if a person is admitted involuntarily, they must either be discharged within a certain number of days or brought to a mental health court to request a longer commitment.
Choice B Reason:
This statement is correct. Clients who are involuntarily admitted retain their rights, including the right to informed consent. They should be informed about their condition, the proposed treatments, and the potential risks and benefits, and they should be involved in their care decisions as much as possible.
Choice C Reason:
Administering medications to clients who refuse them is a complex issue. While there are circumstances where treatment may be given against a client's wishes, particularly if they pose a danger to themselves or others, this must be done within the framework of the law, which includes respecting clients' rights and obtaining necessary legal orders.
Choice D Reason:
The laws regarding the use of restraints on involuntarily admitted clients are indeed different and often more stringent. These laws are designed to protect the rights of clients and ensure that restraints are used only when absolutely necessary and as a last resort.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While a mental health unit that includes milieu therapy may focus on stabilizing clients, it is not limited to those in an acute phase of mental illness. Milieu therapy is a comprehensive approach that can benefit individuals at various stages of their treatment.
Choice B reason:
Milieu therapy is not necessarily less intensive nor does it focus solely on one psychiatric illness or substance abuse disorder. It is a versatile treatment method that can be applied to a range of conditions and is integrated into the daily life of the unit.
Choice C reason:
This choice accurately reflects the essence of milieu therapy. It is a therapeutic approach where the environment is used as an integral part of treatment. The goal is to create a stable, adaptive reality through routines, boundaries, and open communication, fostering a sense of safety and support for therapeutic change.
Choice D reason:
Milieu therapy is not exclusively focused on long-term care but is adaptable to the needs of clients, whether they require short-term stabilization or long-term treatment. It is designed to help individuals learn healthier ways of thinking and behaving within a supportive community setting.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
