A nurse is conducting a medication education group for mentally ill cl

QUESTION

A nurse is conducting a medication education group for mentally ill clients. One of the clients states, “I don’t think everyone needs medications. What about psychotherapy? Can you tell me about that?” What is an appropriate response by the nurse?

a. Talk to the group about the benefits of psychotherapy.
b. Tell the group that psychotherapy is ineffective and they need medication.
c. Acknowledge the question, but explain the time limitations and focus of that particular group.
d. Explain that it is the physician’s decision what type of treatment modality is for each client

ANSWER:

ANS: C
In the past, nurses had more time with clients. Today nurses must make every second count. Nurses and clients need to select the most pressing health care needs for attention. The nurse should focus on what is essential to know, rather than what might be nice to know. This requires planning and sensitivity to client needs and preferences. Client readiness and capabilities are other factors to take into consideration in selecting content. Unless it is an emergency situation, the nurse can guide but not insist on a particular point of discussion.