A nurse notices that a client with paranoid schizophrenia stops in mid-sentence when talking and tilts his head to the side as if to listen. The most appropriate intervention by the nurse would be to:
Ask the client, “What are the voices saying to you?”
Give the client a PRN dose of benztropine.
Call and report the behavior to the physician.
Tell the client, “Well, I see you’re distracted right now. We’ll talk more later.”
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is a.
Choice A Reason:
The statement “Ask the client, ‘What are the voices saying to you?’” is correct. Engaging the client in a conversation about their hallucinations can help the nurse understand the content and nature of the hallucinations, which is crucial for assessing the client’s risk of harm to themselves or others. This approach also validates the client’s experience and can help build trust and rapport. It is important to approach the client with empathy and without judgment, as this can help in managing the symptoms more effectively.

Choice B Reason:
The statement “Give the client a PRN dose of benztropine” is incorrect. Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication used to treat extrapyramidal symptoms caused by antipsychotic medications. It is not used to manage auditory hallucinations directly. Administering benztropine without a clear indication could lead to unnecessary side effects and does not address the immediate issue of the hallucinations.
Choice C Reason:
The statement “Call and report the behavior to the physician” is incorrect. While it is important to keep the physician informed about significant changes in the client’s condition, the immediate intervention should focus on addressing the client’s current experience. Reporting the behavior without first attempting to understand and manage the hallucinations may delay appropriate care and support for the client.
Choice D Reason:
The statement “Tell the client, ‘Well, I see you’re distracted right now. We’ll talk more later.’” is incorrect. This response dismisses the client’s current experience and may make them feel misunderstood or ignored. It is important to address the client’s immediate needs and provide support rather than postponing the conversation. Acknowledging the client’s experience and offering to discuss it can help in managing the symptoms and providing appropriate care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Assess regularly for self-harm during treatment
Regular assessment for self-harm is crucial in any psychiatric care plan, especially for clients with conversion disorder who may experience significant distress. However, this action alone does not address the underlying issues or provide the client with tools to manage their symptoms. Continuous monitoring is important, but it should be part of a broader, more comprehensive care plan.
Choice B: Allow for unlimited discussion on physical symptoms
While it is important to validate the client’s experiences and provide a space for them to discuss their symptoms, allowing unlimited discussion can sometimes reinforce the symptoms and lead to increased focus on physical complaints. This approach may not be beneficial in the long term and can detract from addressing the psychological aspects of the disorder.
Choice C: Discuss alternative coping strategies with the client
This is the correct answer. Discussing alternative coping strategies helps the client develop skills to manage their symptoms more effectively. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation exercises, and stress management can be very beneficial. These strategies empower the client to handle stress and reduce the impact of their symptoms. Providing education on coping mechanisms is a proactive approach that can lead to better outcomes.
Choice D: Encourage alone time for the client in seclusion
Encouraging alone time in seclusion is generally not recommended for clients with conversion disorder. Seclusion can increase feelings of isolation and distress, potentially exacerbating symptoms. Instead, supportive and interactive interventions are preferred to help the client feel connected and understood.
Correct Answer is ["C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer is c, e.
Choice A Reason:
The statement “Clear and organized speech” is incorrect. Clients with delirium often exhibit disorganized thinking and speech. Their speech may be rambling, irrelevant, or incoherent, reflecting their fluctuating mental state. Clear and organized speech is more characteristic of a person without cognitive impairment or with stable cognitive function.
Choice B Reason:
The statement “Increased attention and focus” is incorrect. Delirium is characterized by a disturbance in attention and awareness. Clients with delirium typically have difficulty sustaining or shifting attention, which is a key diagnostic criterion. Increased attention and focus are not consistent with the presentation of delirium.
Choice C Reason:
The statement “Fluctuating levels of consciousness” is correct. One of the hallmark features of delirium is the fluctuation in the level of consciousness throughout the day3. Clients may experience periods of lucidity interspersed with confusion and disorientation. This fluctuation is a critical diagnostic indicator of delirium.
Choice D Reason:
The statement “Stable and consistent cognitive function” is incorrect. Delirium is marked by an acute change in cognitive function, which is neither stable nor consistent. Cognitive functions such as memory, orientation, and language are typically impaired and fluctuate over time. Stable cognitive function would not support a diagnosis of delirium.
Choice E Reason:
The statement “Agitation and aggression” is correct. Clients with delirium often exhibit behavioral disturbances, including agitation and aggression. These symptoms can result from the confusion and disorientation experienced during delirium. Recognizing these behavioral changes is important for the diagnosis and management of delirium.
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