A nurse is caring for a client who has just received a terminal cancer diagnosis from his provider. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Stop the newly licensed nurse from administering the medication – While it is important to prevent the administration of medication against the client's will, the focus should initially be on de-escalation to address the client's refusal.

B. Demonstrate how to verbally de-escalate the situation – This is the most appropriate first action. De-escalation techniques can help calm the client and create a dialogue, potentially leading to a willingness to discuss the medication and its benefits.

C.discussing the medication's purpose, is also secondary to honoring the client's current refusal.

D.assessing the need for restraints, would be inappropriate without first stopping the medication administration and could escalate the situation. Therefore, the first and most critical action is to stop the medication administration.

B is correct because reporting any adverse effects of the medication can help the provider adjust the dosage or prescribe a different medication if needed. Some common adverse effects of haloperidol are extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, and anticholinergic effects.

C is correct because notifying the provider within 48 hr of manifestations of a relapse can help the client receive timely intervention and prevent further deterioration of their mental health. Some signs of a relapse are increased anxiety, paranoia, social withdrawal, insomnia, and mood swings.

D is correct because going for a walk or engaging in other physical activities can help the client cope with stress and reduce anxiety, which are common triggers for schizophrenia symptoms.

E is correct because asking a trusted person to watch for manifestations of illness can help the client gain insight into their condition and seek help when needed. A trusted person can be a family member, a friend, or a mental health professional.

A is incorrect because taking a dose of the medication as soon as delusions or hallucinations begin is not an effective strategy for relapse prevention. The client should take their medication as prescribed by their provider and not adjust the dosage on their own.

F is incorrect because limiting alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks per week is not sufficient for relapse prevention. Alcohol can interact with haloperidol and increase its sedative effects, impairing the client's judgment and cognition. Alcohol can also worsen schizophrenia symptoms and interfere with recovery. The client should avoid alcohol altogether or consult with their provider before consuming any alcohol.