The nurse is working with an adolescent client that is argumentative with staff and peers on the behavioral health unit. Which therapeutic response will be most beneficial for the client to decrease acting out behavior?
“If your behavior continues, we have no choice but to place you in seclusion."
"You have to take this medication to settle you down and stop your behavior."
“I don't know what set you off today but you have to get along with others."
“Let’s go to a quiet area and talk about what is upsetting you."
The Correct Answer is D
Explanation: This response demonstrates the use of therapeutic communication, specifically offering the client an opportunity to express their feelings and concerns in a non-confrontational manner. By suggesting a private and quiet area to talk to, the nurse provides a safe and supportive environment for the client to explore and process their emotions. This approach can help the client feel heard, validated, and understood, which may reduce their need to act out or engage in argumentative behaviors to express their feelings.
The other responses are not as effective or therapeutic:
A. Threatening the client with seclusion is an aggressive approach and may escalate the client's behavior or cause them to feel cornered and defensive, leading to further acting out.
B. Telling the client they have to take medication to stop their behavior does not address the underlying issues that may be causing their behavior. It can also come across as dismissive of the client's feelings and concerns.
C. Saying "I don't know what set you off today but you have to get along with others" may be perceived as dismissive and does not offer the client an opportunity to express their emotions or address their concerns.
In summary, offering a private space to talk and explore the client's feelings in a non-judgmental and supportive manner is the most beneficial therapeutic response to help the adolescent client decrease acting out behaviors and promote positive communication and coping skills.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Explanation: The priority question the nurse should ask the client during the initial assessment is whether they feel safe in their home (Option B). This question is essential because it addresses the client's safety and well-being, particularly regarding the possibility of domestic violence or intimate partner violence.
Assessing for safety is a critical component of the initial assessment, especially for female clients, as they may be at higher risk for experiencing domestic violence or abuse. By asking about the client's safety in their home, the nurse can identify potential issues related to violence or unsafe living conditions and take appropriate actions to ensure the client's safety.
Options A, C, and D are also important assessment questions, but they are not the priority in this scenario:
A. "Do you have enough money to pay for your care today?" - This is an important question regarding the client's financial situation and ability to access healthcare. However, safety and well-being take precedence over financial concerns in the initial assessment.
C. "Do you take illegal street drugs?" - This question is crucial for assessing the client's substance use and potential risk factors related to drug use. However, the safety question (Option B) is more immediate and directly addresses the client's well-being.
D. "Do you obtain regular medical care?" - This question is vital for assessing the client's healthcare needs and access to healthcare services. However, the safety question (Option B) should be addressed first to ensure the client's immediate safety and well-being.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The statement, "I will find a support group to help me through this," indicates that the client's coping skills are adequate. Seeking support from others who have experienced a similar loss can be an effective way to cope with feelings of loneliness and vulnerability after the death of a spouse. Support groups provide a safe and understanding environment where individuals can share their experiences, feelings, and struggles, and receive emotional support from others who can relate to their situation.
Option A suggests an overconfidence in coping skills and may not fully acknowledge the need for external support during a challenging time.
Option B indicates a sense of feeling abandoned, which could be a sign of struggling coping skills.
Option C suggests confusion and difficulty accepting the loss, which may indicate inadequate coping skills at the moment.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.