A nurse is teaching the guardian of a school-age child who has autism spectrum disorder about a new prescription for risperidone. Which of the following statements by the guardian an understanding of the teaching?

A. Keep the client hospitalized until there is no longer a threat

Nurses do not have the authority to unilaterally detain clients in a hospital. This decision is typically made by a physician or a legal authority, especially in the context of a medical-surgical unit where mental health professionals may need to be involved.Keeping a client hospitalized without proper legal procedures and mental health evaluation could lead to legal repercussions for unlawful detainment.

B. Ensure the client's ex-partner is notified of the threat

This option involves notifying the potential victim about the threat made by the client. While it's important to ensure the safety of others, the nurse's legal duty primarily lies with protecting the confidentiality of the client's information. Without consent from the client or a legal obligation, such as mandatory reporting laws for imminent harm, the nurse cannot disclose the threat to the ex-partner.

C. Ask a friend or family member to monitor the client

While involving family or friends might provide support, it is not a sufficient or appropriate response to a threat of harm. It does not address the immediate risk posed to the ex-partner and may not comply with legal obligations.

D. Transfer the client to a mental health facility

Transferring the client to a mental health facility for further evaluation and treatment might be necessary, but it must be done through appropriate medical and legal channels. It addresses the need for a thorough mental health assessment and ensures that the client receives the necessary care.

A. Encourage the client to attend group therapy sessions: While group therapy can be beneficial for some individuals with panic disorder by providing support and opportunities for learning coping strategies, it may not be appropriate for all clients. Some clients may feel overwhelmed or anxious in group settings, especially during panic attacks. The nurse should assess the client's readiness and comfort level with group therapy and individualize the treatment plan accordingly.

B. Allow the client to choose scheduled daily activities: Providing the client with a sense of control and autonomy over their daily activities can be helpful in managing anxiety and panic symptoms. However, this intervention alone may not address the specific cognitive and behavioral aspects of panic disorder. It is important to incorporate other evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, into the treatment plan to address the underlying causes of panic attacks.

C. Use simple words to describe procedures to the client: Individuals with panic disorder may experience difficulty processing information and focusing during panic attacks or periods of heightened anxiety. Using simple and clear language to describe procedures can help reduce confusion and alleviate anxiety in these situations. It is important to provide information in a calm and reassuring manner to facilitate understanding and cooperation.

D. Avoid discussing topics that can trigger a panic attack: While it is important to be mindful of potential triggers for panic attacks, avoiding all discussion of triggering topics may not be practical or helpful in the long term. Instead, the nurse should work collaboratively with the client to identify triggers and develop coping strategies to manage them effectively. Avoidance alone may reinforce avoidance behaviors and perpetuate anxiety.