Later in the day you find this patient standing in the lounge in ...

[geodog55]

Later in the day you find this patient standing in the lounge in a strange position: on one leg with both arms extended. How should you respond?
 
  A.
  Ignore the behavior, as this must be something she needs to do.
  B.
  Tell the patient sternly that this is not appropriate and to move to her room.
  C.
  Calmly acknowledge the position and ask the patient to stand on both legs.
  D.
  Encourage other patients in the lounge to do the same position to make the patient more comfortable.

Question 2

Your schizophrenic patient is sitting in her room with her hands over her ears and crying. Which is the best way to approach her?
 
  A.
  Take her hands away from her ears and hold her hands in a sympathetic manner.
  B.
  Leave her alone as she most likely wants privacy.
  C.
  Make eye contact with her and ask her what is going on.
  D.
  Leave the room and call the charge nurse to determine if she needs an adjustment in her medication.

[phuda]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
This response demonstrates acceptance of the patient's behavior and also reinforces reality. Response A is not reality based. Responses B and D could be viewed as punitive or embarrassing to the patient.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The patient's behavior may be indicative of hearing voices that are creating distress. This response acknowledges the distress. Touching the schizophrenic patient, as in response A, is usually too threatening. Responses B and D both demonstrate inadequate information. Leaving the patient in distress alone will increase anxiety. The patient may need an adjustment in medication but would not be your first action.

[geodog55]

Excellent

[rachel]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it