A nurse is caring for a client who attacked one of her friends and is admitted to the psychiatric unit. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Explain the client that the behavior was unacceptable.
Explore the truth of the client's statements.
Set behavioral limits for the client.
Establish a client relationship
The Correct Answer is C
A. Explain to the client that the behavior was unacceptable: While addressing the behavior is important, it is more effective to first establish clear limits and boundaries to prevent further incidents.
B. Explore the truth of the client’s statements: This step involves assessing the client's statements and understanding their perspective, which is important but can be done after setting behavioral limits.
C. Set behavioral limits for the client: Establishing clear behavioral limits is crucial for maintaining safety and order in the psychiatric unit. It helps ensure that the client understands what is expected of them and the consequences of unacceptable behavior. This is particularly important if the client has exhibited aggressive behavior, as it helps prevent further incidents and maintains a safe environment for everyone.
D. Establish a client relationship: Building a therapeutic relationship is essential for effective treatment, but it should be done in the context of a safe environment where clear behavioral expectations have already been established.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Discuss the problem in a community meeting with the other clients on the unit present.
While open communication and community meetings can be valuable in certain situations, discussing a client's disruptive behavior in front of others may breach their privacy and dignity. It's important to address such matters privately and respectfully.
B. Escort the client to her room each time the nurse observes the client socializing with other clients.
This action might be seen as overly punitive and restrictive. Isolating the client based on their behavior without addressing the underlying issues doesn't promote a therapeutic approach to the situation.
C. Talk to the client and identify the specific limits that are required of the client's behavior.
This is the correct option. Talking to the client directly allows the nurse to address the behavior, express expectations, and set clear boundaries. This approach promotes open communication and gives the client a chance to understand how their actions are affecting others.
D. Tell the other clients to ignore the client's lies.
While it's important to encourage other clients to manage their reactions to disruptive behavior, simply telling them to ignore lies might not address the root cause of the issue. The nurse should aim to address the behavior itself and create an environment where all clients feel respected and safe.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Female gender: Incorrect
While the risk of attempted suicide is generally higher in females, completed suicide rates are higher in males. Therefore, being female is not typically considered a primary risk factor for suicide,though it's important to note that both genders require attention for prevention.
B. Currently married: Incorrect
Being married is generally considered a protective factor against suicide. Social support and close relationships tend to reduce the risk of suicidal behavior.
C. Age greater than 45 years old: correct
Suicide risk tends to increase with age, particularly for men. Individuals over 45, especially those facing chronic illness, social isolation, or significant life changes, are at higher risk.
D. Substance use disorder: Correct
Substance use disorder is a significant risk factor for suicide. Substance abuse can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair, impair judgment, and lower inhibitions, increasing the likelihood of suicidal behavior.
E. Schizophrenia: Correct
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder associated with an increased risk of suicide. The symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations, delusions, and feelings of isolation, can contribute to severe distress and increase the risk of suicidal ideation and behaviors.

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