The following patients are seen in the emergency department. The ...

[asan beg]

The following patients are seen in the emergency department. The psychiatric unit has one bed available. Which patient should the admitting officer recommend for admission to the hospital? The patient who:
 
  a. experiencing dry mouth and tremor related to side effects of haloperidol (Haldol).
  b. experiencing anxiety and a sad mood after a separation from a spouse of 10 years.
  c. who self-inflicted a superficial cut on the forearm after a family argument.
  d. who is a single parent and hears voices saying, Smother your infant.

Question 2

A nurse surveys the medical records for violations of patients' rights. Which finding signals a violation?
 
  a. No treatment plan is present in record.
  b. Patient belongings are searched at admission.
  c. Physical restraint is used to prevent harm to self.
  d. Patient is placed on one-to-one continuous observation.

[Chocorrol77]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Admission to the hospital would be justified by the risk of patient danger to self or others. The other patients have issues that can be handled with less restrictive alternatives than hospitalization.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The patient has the right to have a treatment plan. Inspecting a patient's belongings is a safety measure. Patients have the right to a safe environment, including the right to be protected against impulses to harm self that occur as a result of a mental disorder.