A person diagnosed with a serious mental illness enters a shelter ...

[ahriuashd]

A person diagnosed with a serious mental illness enters a shelter for the homeless. Which intervention should be the nurse's initial priority?
 
  a. Find supported employment.
  b. Develop a trusting relationship.
  c. Administer prescribed medication.
  d. Teach appropriate health care practices.

Question 2

Which nursing diagnosis is likely to apply to an individual diagnosed with a serious mental illness who is homeless?
 
  a. Insomnia
  b. Substance abuse
  c. Chronic low self-esteem
  d. Impaired environmental interpretation syndrome

[soda0602]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Basic psychosocial needs do not change because a person is homeless. The first step in caring for health care needs is establishing rapport. Once a trusting relationship is established, the nurse pursues other interventions.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Many individuals with serious mental illness do not live with their families and become homeless. Life on the street or in a shelter has a negative influence on the individual's self-esteem, making this nursing diagnosis one that should be considered. Substance abuse is not an approved NANDA-International diagnosis. Insomnia may be noted in some patients but is not a universal problem. Impaired environmental interpretation syndrome refers to persistent disorientation, which is not seen in a majority of the homeless.

[ahriuashd]

Thank you

[soda0602]

Happy to help you