A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing active auditory hallucinations. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Tell the client that their experience is not real.
Avoid asking direct questions about the client's experience.
Focus the client on reality-based activities.
Convey sympathy for the client's experience.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Telling a client that their experience is not real can be invalidating and may damage the therapeutic relationship between the nurse and the client. It is essential to acknowledge the client's experience as real to them and provide support without reinforcing the hallucination.
Choice B reason: While it is important not to reinforce hallucinations, avoiding direct questions about the client's experience can hinder the nurse's ability to assess the client's condition fully. It is better to ask open-ended questions that allow the client to describe their experience without feeling judged.
Choice C reason: Focusing the client on reality-based activities can help distract them from the hallucinations and ground them in the present moment. Activities such as listening to music, engaging in conversation, or participating in a physical activity can help reduce the intensity of hallucinations and provide a sense of control.
Choice D reason: Conveying sympathy for the client's experience is compassionate and can help build trust. However, it is crucial to balance empathy with encouragement to engage in reality-based activities and strategies to manage the hallucinations effectively.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking "Why did you feel like giving away your belongings?" could be perceived as confrontational or judgmental. It's important to approach the client with empathy and without implying that their actions were wrong or require justification.
Choice B reason: "Can you tell me how you have been feeling lately?" is an open-ended question that invites the client to share their feelings and experiences. It demonstrates the nurse's interest in understanding the client's emotional state and provides a safe space for the client to express themselves.
Choice C reason: Saying "Everyone feels a little down sometimes." minimizes the client's experience and the severity of major depressive disorder. It fails to acknowledge the unique and serious nature of the client's condition.
Choice D reason: While suggesting "You should find a support group to attend." can be helpful, it may be more appropriate after establishing a rapport and understanding the client's current state. It's also important to offer support in finding resources rather than directing the client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking the client about their hallucinations can provide valuable information about the content and nature of the hallucinations. This can help the nurse assess the client's current mental state and the potential impact of the hallucinations on their behavior and safety.
Choice B reason: Focusing the client on reality-based topics is a strategy that can be used after understanding the client's hallucinations. It's important to first acknowledge the client's experience before attempting to redirect their attention.
Choice C reason: Taking the client for a walk may be a good distraction technique, but it should not be the first action. The nurse needs to assess the client's safety and the potential risks associated with the hallucinations before engaging in activities.
Choice D reason: Encouraging the client to listen to music can be a therapeutic intervention to help distract from hallucinations. However, it is not the first action to take. The nurse should first understand the client's experience and ensure their safety.
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