A nurse is caring for a client who has schizophrenia and tells the nurse. "They lie about me all the time and they are trying to poison my food." Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

A. Provide personal space to respect the client's boundaries: This is the correct answer. Personal space is crucial when caring for an agitated client with paranoia. Respecting the client's need for distance helps to reduce anxiety and prevent escalation of agitation.

B. Maintain continual eye contact throughout the interview: Continuous eye contact may be perceived as confrontational and can increase anxiety, especially in individuals with paranoia. It is important to be mindful of non-verbal cues and adapt the approach to the client's comfort level.

C. Provide neon lights and soft music: Introducing external stimuli like neon lights and music may not be appropriate for an agitated client with paranoia. It could potentially exacerbate their distress. The focus should be on creating a calm and non-threatening environment.

D. Use therapeutic touch to increase trust and rapport: While therapeutic touch can be beneficial in certain situations, it may not be suitable for a client experiencing paranoia. Touch can be perceived as intrusive and may escalate agitation in this context.

A. By setting punishments for clients who violate the community rules: This approach is more authoritarian than democratic. In a democratic milieu, the emphasis is on collaboration, shared decision-making, and equal participation, rather than imposing punishments.

B. By setting expectations wherein all clients are not treated on an equal basis: This approach would be contrary to the principles of a democratic milieu. The democratic model promotes equality, inclusion, and the involvement of all clients in decision-making.

C. By setting expectations wherein all clients are treated on an equal basis: This is the correct answer. In a democratic milieu, all clients are encouraged to participate equally in decision-making processes, express their opinions, and contribute to the therapeutic community. This fosters a sense of empowerment and shared responsibility.

D. By dealing with inappropriate behaviors as they occur: While addressing inappropriate behaviors is important in any therapeutic environment, the emphasis on a democratic form of self-government goes beyond reacting to behaviors. It involves actively engaging clients in the decision-making process and promoting a collaborative and supportive community.