A nurse on a mental health unit is preparing an in-service about ethical concepts when providing client care. Which of the following definitions should the nurse include when discussing advocacy?

Rationale for correct choices:

• Ask a trusted person to watch for manifestations of illness: Involving a trusted person in monitoring symptoms can help identify early signs of relapse. Sometimes, clients may not notice subtle changes in their mental state, so a reliable individual can alert the healthcare provider, allowing for early intervention.
• Notify your provider within 48 hr of manifestations of a relapse: Early detection and intervention are key to preventing a full relapse. By notifying the provider within 48 hours, the healthcare team can adjust medications or other interventions promptly, reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Go for a walk to decrease anxiety during times of increased stress: Physical activity, like walking, is beneficial for managing anxiety, which is a common trigger in individuals with schizophrenia. Regular exercise can also promote mental well-being, making it a helpful strategy for coping with stress.
• Report any adverse effects of the medication to the provider immediately: Antipsychotic medications like haloperidol can cause significant side effects, and reporting these early allows the provider to manage or adjust the treatment plan, preventing complications such as extrapyramidal symptoms or neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Limit alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks per week: Alcohol should be avoided entirely, as it can interfere with the effectiveness of antipsychotic medications and worsen psychiatric symptoms.
• Take a dose of the medication as soon as delusions or hallucinations begin: Medications for schizophrenia, like haloperidol, should be taken as prescribed, and adjustments to dosage or frequency should only be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

A. Encourage the client to take naps during the day: While daytime napping may help the client rest, it is unlikely to directly prevent nighttime wandering. It might even interfere with nighttime sleep, potentially increasing wandering behavior.
B. Install locks at the bottom of the exit doors: Installing locks at the bottom of exit doors is an effective safety intervention. It can prevent the client from wandering outside while still allowing caregivers to monitor and assist the client if needed.
C. Place the client's mattress on the floor: Placing the mattress on the floor might prevent injury if the client falls out of bed, but it does not address the core issue of nighttime wandering. Additional measures are needed to manage wandering safely.
D. Place rubber-backed throw rugs on tile floors: Rubber-backed throw rugs can help prevent slipping but do not directly address the issue of wandering. This intervention may be useful for fall prevention but not for preventing the client from wandering at night.