The nurse is caring for a client who is suffering from schizophrenia a

QUESTION

The nurse is caring for a client who is suffering from schizophrenia and cocaine abuse. The client remains isolated in his room, refusing to attend unit activities. When implementing a behavioral approach, what is the first step the nurse should take?

a. Define specific consequences.
b. Describe the behavior requiring change.
c. Reframe the problem as a solution statement.
d. Identify the tasks in sequential order.

ANSWER:

ANS: B
A behavioral approach starts with a careful description and quantification of a concrete behavior requiring change. During the third step of implementing a behavioral approach, the nurse and client reframe the problem as a solution statement (e.g., “The client will attend all scheduled unit activities.”). If the problem and solution are complex, the nurse can break them down into simpler definitions, beginning with the simplest and most likely behavior to stimulate client interest. The nurse should identify the tasks in sequential order; define specific consequences, positive and negative, for behavioral responses; and solicit the client’s cooperation.