The family of a patient whose insurance will not pay for ...

[nmorano1]

The family of a patient whose insurance will not pay for continuing hospitalization considers transferring the patient to a public mental hospital. They express concern that the patient will be never get any treatment.
 
  Which reply by the nurse would be most helpful?
  a. Under the law, treatment must be provided. Hospitalization without treatment violates patients' rights.
  b. All patients in public hospitals have the right to choose both a primary therapist and a primary nurse.
  c. That's a justifiable concern because the right to treatment extends only to provision of food, shelter, and safety.
  d. Much will depend on other patients, because the right to treatment for a psychotic patient takes precedence over the right to treatment of a patient who is stable.

Question 2

A 35-year-old woman is being assessed related to suspected battering. In interviewing this patient, it is important for the nurse to keep in mind that: (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. the nurse's demeanor should be one of concern and caring.
  b. professional terminology should be used and taught to the patient.
  c. all noted injuries should be thoroughly and explicitly documented.
  d. police personnel or other witnesses should be present during the interview.
  e. teaching assertiveness and coping skills is a priority to reduce victimization.
  f. abuse survivors may conceal their injuries to reduce future assaults.

[mcabuhat]

Answer to Question 1

A
The right to medical and psychiatric treatment was conferred on all patients hospitalized in public mental hospitals with the enactment of the federal Hospitalization of Mentally Ill Act in 1964.

Answer to Question 2

A, C, F
Developing trust and a therapeutic relationship is a priority in initial contacts with the patient. All injuries and any other potential evidence should be documented in a clear, detailed manner, including the use of drawings, quotes, and photography. Persons who have been abused may conceal the extent of their injuries and minimize the actions of the perpetrator out of fear of future, even worse abuse should they be candid. The nurse should use terminology and language familiar to the patient. The purpose of the interview is to assess and assist the patient, not develop a case for prosecution; the interview should be conducted in private (no nonessential or nonhealth care personnel should be present). Teaching assertiveness and coping skills will be important interventions after the assessment phase and other higher-priority interventions have been completed.