A nurse is preparing to assist with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Which of the following pieces of equipment should the nurse set up in the room prior to the treatment? (Select all that apply)

Choice A reason:
Cognitive therapy focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors through structured sessions with a therapist. While it is an effective treatment for many mental health conditions, it does not involve the structured daily routines described in the scenario. Cognitive therapy is typically conducted in individual or group sessions rather than through the daily activities of an inpatient unit.

Choice B reason:
Milieu therapy involves creating a therapeutic environment that supports the client’s recovery through structured daily routines and interactions with staff and peers. The emphasis on getting up at a certain time, attending meals, and taking medications on schedule is characteristic of milieu therapy. This approach helps clients develop healthy habits, social skills, and a sense of responsibility.

Choice C reason:
Family therapy involves working with the client and their family members to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and support the client’s recovery. While family therapy is an important component of comprehensive mental health care, it does not involve the structured daily routines described in the scenario. Family therapy sessions are typically scheduled separately from the client’s daily activities.

Choice D reason:
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a medical treatment that involves inducing controlled seizures to alleviate severe psychiatric symptoms. ECT is typically administered in a hospital setting under anesthesia and is not related to the structured daily routines described in the scenario. It is used for specific conditions, such as severe depression or treatment-resistant schizophrenia, and is not a form of therapy that involves daily activities.

Choice A reason:
An illusion is a misinterpretation of a real external stimulus. For example, seeing a shadow and thinking it is a person. The client’s statement does not indicate a misinterpretation of reality but rather a desire to inflict harm on themselves.
Choice B reason:
A hallucination is a false sensory perception without any real external stimulus, such as hearing voices or seeing things that are not there. The client’s statement does not suggest they are experiencing a hallucination but rather expressing a desire to self-harm.
Choice C reason:
Attention-seeking behavior involves actions taken to gain attention from others. While the client’s statement could be seen as a cry for help, it is more accurately identified as a risk for self-mutilation due to the explicit mention of wanting to cut themselves.
Choice D reason:
Self-mutilation refers to deliberate self-inflicted harm, often as a way to cope with emotional pain. The client’s statement, “Give me your pen to cut the pain out of my chest,” clearly indicates a risk for self-mutilation, as they are expressing a desire to harm themselves to alleviate emotional distress.