The nurse recognizes that a function of the Mental Status Exam is to:

Choice A Reason: 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 Reason: 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 Reason: 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 Reason: 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.

Choice A Reason:

Ask open-ended questions.

While asking open-ended questions can be useful in many therapeutic settings, it may not be the best approach when dealing with delusional clients. Open-ended questions can sometimes lead to more elaborate delusional thinking and may not help in grounding the client in reality. Instead, focusing on the present moment and concrete reality can be more effective in managing delusions.

Choice B Reason:

Focus on what is happening in the here and now.

This is the correct response. Focusing on the present moment helps to ground the client in reality and can reduce the intensity of delusional thoughts. By directing the client’s attention to their immediate environment and current activities, the nurse can help the client stay connected to reality and reduce the impact of their delusions.

Choice C Reason:

Assume knowledge of what is meant when the client talks about “they.”

Assuming knowledge of what the client means when they refer to “they” can reinforce delusional thinking. It is important for the nurse to clarify and understand the client’s perspective without validating the delusion. This approach helps maintain a therapeutic relationship while not reinforcing false beliefs.

Choice D Reason:

Limit contact to one or two short interactions daily.

Limiting contact to one or two short interactions daily is not an effective strategy for managing delusions. Clients with delusions often need consistent and supportive interactions to help them stay grounded in reality. Frequent, brief interactions can provide the necessary support and reassurance without overwhelming the client.