The nurse is providing care for a client who has been involuntarily admitted for psychiatric treatment.

What information about involuntary commitment should the nurse share with the client’s family?

Choice A rationale
Given the client’s educational background and reading level, it’s important to provide instructions that are simple and straightforward. Telling the client when to take her medication in a clear, concise manner is most appropriate.
Choice B rationale
Using medical terms like “MAOI” (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor) could confuse the client, especially considering her educational background and reading level.
Choice C rationale
Using abbreviations like “q.d.”. (which stands for “quaque die”, meaning “once a day” in Latin) could also confuse the client.
Choice D rationale
While this instruction is accurate, it might be too complex for the client to understand.

Choice B rationale:
Involuntary commitment typically occurs when a person's mental illness makes them a danger to themselves or others. It is essential for the nurse to communicate this crucial information to the client's family to help them understand the necessity of treatment.
Choice A rationale:
While a psychiatrist may be involved in the decision to commit a client involuntarily, simply stating that the client's behavior is irrational does not provide sufficient information about the reasons for commitment (no reference).
Choice C rationale:
The inability to manage daily life affairs may be a factor in considering involuntary commitment, but it is not the primary reason for such a decision (no reference).
Choice D rationale:
Accusation of a legal offense is not directly related to involuntary commitment for psychiatric treatment, which focuses on the client's mental health and potential risk to self or others (no reference).