A nurse observes that a client is sitting alone in her room crying. As the nurse approaches, she states, "I'm feeling really down and don't want to talk to anyone right now." Which of the following responses is appropriate for the nurse?

"It might help you feel better if you talk about it."

“Why are you feeling so down?"

“I just sit here with you for a few minutes then."

"I understand. I've felt like that before, too."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

The appropriate response for the nurse in this situation would be: "I'll just sit here with you for a few minutes then."
This response acknowledges the client's expressed desire not to talk and respects their boundaries. It shows support and presence by offering companionship without pressuring the client to discuss their feelings. The nurse's willingness to sit with the client demonstrates empathy and provides a sense of comfort and reassurance.
The other options are not as appropriate:

1.   "It might help you feel better if you talk about it." This response disregards the client's stated preference not to talk and may create a sense of pressure or intrusiveness. It is important to respect the client's autonomy and readiness to share their feelings.
2.   "Why are you feeling so down?" This response directly asks the client to explain their feelings, which they have already indicated they do not want to discuss. It can be seen as intrusive and may make the client feel uncomfortable or defensive.
3.   "I understand. I've felt like that before, too." While empathy is important, this response brings the focus back to the nurse's own experiences, potentially diverting the attention from the client. It is important for the nurse to remain focused on the client's needs and create a supportive environment for them to express their feelings if they choose to do so.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The priority action in this situation is to set behavioral limits for the client. This is important for maintaining a safe environment for the client, other staff members, and other clients. By setting limits, the nurse establishes clear boundaries and expectations for behavior, helping to prevent the escalation of aggression or violence.
Let's examine why the other choices are incorrect:

A. Exploring the truth of the client's statements: While it is important to listen to and validate the client's concerns, in this particular situation, where the client is becoming agitated and confrontational, addressing the truth of their statements is not the priority. The immediate concern is ensuring safety and de-escalating the situation.

B. Establishing a therapeutic nurse-client relationship: Developing a therapeutic relationship is crucial for providing effective care, but it may not be the immediate priority when a client is displaying aggressive or violent behavior. Safety takes precedence in such situations, and setting behavioral limits is necessary before establishing a therapeutic relationship can effectively occur.

D. Showing the client around the unit and introducing her to other clients: This action is inappropriate during an agitated and confrontational episode. It is important to first
address the client's behavior and ensure the safety of all individuals involved before engaging in social activities or introductions.

A. Obtain client's weight weekly. B. Offer the client finger foods for meals. C. Speak loudly when addressing the client. D. Give long task at a time to the client E. Turn the clients TV on at night when they are unable to sleep. F. Encourage the client to take deep breaths when feeling agitated. G. Assess client's memory every shift.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","F","G"]

Explanation

From the given information, the nurse should include the following interventions in the plan of care for the client with dementia:
● Obtain client's weight weekly: Regular weight monitoring helps assess the client's nutritional status and detect any significant changes that may require intervention.
● Offer the client finger foods for meals: Finger foods can be easier for the client to handle and consume independently, promoting independence and self-feeding.
● Encourage the client to take deep breaths when feeling agitated: Deep breathing exercises can help the client manage their agitation and promote relaxation.
● Assess client's memory every shift: Regular assessment of the client's memory allows for monitoring any changes or decline, which helps in planning appropriate interventions and providing necessary support.
The following interventions should be avoided:

● Speak loudly when addressing the client: Speaking loudly may cause confusion or agitation in the client. Instead, it is recommended to use a calm and reassuring tone of voice.
● Give long tasks at a time to the client: Clients with dementia often have difficulty with concentration and memory. Providing long tasks may overwhelm them and contribute to their frustration. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps is more appropriate.

● Turn the client's TV on at night when they are unable to sleep: It is generally recommended to create a quiet and calming environment for sleep. The TV may interfere with the client's sleep and contribute to increased agitation or confusion.

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A nurse observes that a client is sitting alone in her room crying. As the nurse approaches, she states, "I'm feeling really down and don't want to talk to anyone right now." Which of the following responses is appropriate for the nurse?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assisting in the admission process for a client who has a history of violent behavior. The client stands up and begins clenching her fists and arguing with the nurse. Which of the following actions is the priority?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse working in a long-term care facility is admitting a client who has dementia. Exhibits Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care? Select all that apply.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","F","G"]

Explanation

A nurse on an inpatient mental health unit is assisting with the admission of a client who reports feeling depressed, sad, moody, and overly anxious. Which of the following assessments should the nurse make first?

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