A nurse observes the caregiver of a client who has Alzheimer's disease throwing magazines on the floor and crying. Which of the following actions should the case manager take first?
Discuss relaxation techniques with the caregiver.
Refer the caregiver to a local support group.
Consult social services to explore counseling for the caregiver.
Offer to talk with the caregiver about their feelings.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Discussing relaxation techniques with the caregiver is a beneficial action that can help manage stress. However, it may not be the most immediate need for a caregiver who is in the midst of an emotional crisis. Relaxation techniques are more preventive and are best introduced when the caregiver is receptive and not overwhelmed by acute distress.
Choice B reason:
Referring the caregiver to a local support group is an excellent long-term strategy for providing support and resources. Support groups can offer a sense of community and shared experience, which is invaluable. Nonetheless, this action does not address the caregiver's immediate emotional needs and should follow after providing immediate emotional support.
Choice C reason:
Consulting social services to explore counseling options is an important step in supporting the caregiver's mental health. Counseling can provide professional assistance and coping strategies for the caregiver's stress and emotional burden. However, this is a step that should be taken after addressing the caregiver's immediate emotional distress.
Choice D reason:
Offering to talk with the caregiver about their feelings is the most immediate and direct way to provide support. It addresses the caregiver's current emotional state and provides an outlet for their feelings. Active listening and empathetic communication can help alleviate the caregiver's distress and serve as a bridge to further support and resources.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A client lying about suicidal ideation to their provider does not fall under mandatory reporting unless there is evidence or suspicion of harm to self or others. In this case, the client has reported lying, which indicates there is no actual suicidal ideation or intent.
Choice B reason:
While smoking marijuana may be illegal in some jurisdictions, it does not typically require mandatory reporting by a nurse unless it directly affects patient care or involves minors.
Choice C reason:
Theft from an employer is a legal issue but does not require mandatory reporting by a nurse unless it involves stealing medication or other actions that could harm patients.
Choice D reason:
This choice clearly involves child abuse, which is a reportable offense. Nurses are mandated reporters for any suspected child abuse or neglect. Tying a child to a bed as punishment can cause physical and emotional harm, and it is the nurse's duty to report this to the appropriate agency to ensure the child's safety.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Feeling angry at the world is a common reaction to grief and loss. Anger is one of the stages of grief and does not necessarily indicate clinical depression. While it is important to monitor the client's emotional state, anger alone is not a definitive sign of depression.
Choice B reason:
Expressing a sense of numbness and an inability to feel emotions is a significant indicator of clinical depression. This symptom, known as anhedonia, reflects a loss of interest or pleasure in most activities and is a core feature of major depressive disorder. It is crucial to report this to the provider for further evaluation and intervention.
Choice C reason:
Acknowledging the importance of family support is a positive coping mechanism. This statement indicates that the client recognizes their support system, which is beneficial for managing grief. It does not suggest clinical depression.
Choice D reason:
Feeling that it will take a long time to be happy again is a normal part of the grieving process. Grief can be prolonged, and it is natural for clients to feel that their happiness is distant. This statement alone does not indicate clinical depression
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