A nurse is caring for a client who has bipolar disorder. The client says to the nurse, “Give me your pen to cut the pain out of my chest.” The nurse should identify that the client is at risk for which of the following?

Choice A reason:
Anger and aggressiveness directed toward others are not typically associated with voluntary admission. Clients who voluntarily seek treatment are usually motivated to improve their condition and are less likely to exhibit aggressive behaviors towards others. Aggressiveness may be more common in involuntary admissions where the client feels coerced.

Choice B reason:
Fearfulness regarding treatment measures can occur in any client, regardless of whether the admission is voluntary or involuntary. However, clients who voluntarily admit themselves are generally more open to treatment and less likely to exhibit significant fearfulness about the treatment process.

Choice C reason:
Willingness to participate in the planning of the care and treatment plan is a common behavior in clients who have voluntarily admitted themselves. These clients are typically motivated to engage in their treatment and collaborate with healthcare providers to achieve their health goals. Voluntary admission often indicates a proactive approach to managing their condition.

Choice D reason:
An understanding of the pathology and symptoms of the diagnosis is not necessarily linked to the nature of the admission. While some clients may have a good understanding of their condition, others may not, regardless of whether their admission was voluntary or involuntary. Education about the diagnosis is an important part of the treatment process for all clients.

Choice A reason:
Honking the car horn to get the client’s attention could startle the client and potentially escalate the situation. It is important to avoid actions that could provoke a violent response or increase the client’s agitation. Safety is the primary concern, and honking the horn does not ensure the nurse’s or the client’s safety.

Choice B reason:
Stopping the car in the client’s driveway and calling the authorities is not the safest immediate action. While calling the authorities is necessary, stopping in the driveway could put the nurse in a vulnerable position. It is safer to move away from the immediate vicinity before making the call.

Choice C reason:
Keeping driving in a path that is going away from the client’s house is the safest immediate action. This ensures the nurse’s safety by creating distance from the potentially dangerous situation. Once at a safe distance, the nurse can then call the authorities to handle the situation appropriately.

Choice D reason:
Calmly speaking the client’s name out of the car window could also escalate the situation. The client may perceive this as a threat or intrusion, leading to unpredictable behavior. It is safer to avoid direct interaction and ensure personal safety first.