A client with bipolar disorder is refusing to take mood stabilizers due to weight gain. To increase the patient’s adherence to a medication regimen, what measures could the nurse teach the client? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

Choice A Reason:

This statement indicates that the client understands the nature of recovery from alcohol abuse. Recovery is indeed a lifelong process that involves continuous effort and commitment. Recognizing that recovery comes in steps shows that the client is aware of the ongoing nature of the process and the need for sustained effort and support. This understanding is crucial for successful long-term recovery.

Choice B Reason:

This statement is incorrect because it reflects a misunderstanding of the recovery process. Detoxification is just the first step in recovery, and it involves removing alcohol from the body. However, recovery involves much more than just detoxification. It includes ongoing therapy, support groups, lifestyle changes, and coping strategies to maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. Therefore, thinking that recovery is complete after detoxification is a misconception.

Choice C Reason:

This statement is also incorrect because it suggests that the goal of recovery is merely to decrease drinking. The goal of recovery from alcohol abuse is to achieve and maintain sobriety, not just to reduce alcohol consumption. Effective recovery involves abstaining from alcohol, addressing the underlying issues that led to alcohol abuse, and developing healthy coping mechanisms and support systems.

Choice D Reason:

While Al-Anon can indeed assist in the recovery process, this statement alone does not indicate that the client has fully understood the nature of recovery. Al-Anon is a support group for friends and family members of people with alcohol use disorder, and it can provide valuable support and resources. However, recognizing the lifelong and step-by-step nature of recovery is a more comprehensive indication of learning.

d. Interview the client alone and assess for abuse

Explanation of Choices

Choice A Reason: Provide the Daughter and Client with Nutritional Counseling

While nutritional counseling is important, especially given the client’s malnourished state, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. The client’s reluctance to speak and the daughter’s interruptions suggest that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed first. Nutritional counseling can be provided later, once the immediate concerns have been resolved.

Choice B Reason: Request a Psychiatric Evaluation for the Client

Requesting a psychiatric evaluation may be necessary if there are signs of mental health issues, but it is not the first step in this situation. The priority is to ensure the client’s safety and well-being by addressing any immediate concerns, such as potential abuse. A psychiatric evaluation can be considered after the initial assessment and intervention.

Choice C Reason: Take the History from the Daughter Because of the Client’s Confusion

Taking the history from the daughter might seem practical due to the client’s confusion, but it is not the best approach in this case. The daughter’s constant interruptions and the client’s reluctance to speak raise concerns about the reliability of the information provided by the daughter. It is crucial to gather information directly from the client whenever possible to ensure an accurate assessment.

Choice D Reason: Interview the Client Alone and Assess for Abuse

Interviewing the client alone and assessing for abuse is the most appropriate intervention. The client’s reluctance to speak and the daughter’s interruptions could indicate that the client is being controlled or intimidated. Conducting a private interview allows the client to speak freely and provides an opportunity to identify any signs of abuse or neglect. Ensuring the client’s safety and addressing any immediate risks is the top priority.