A patient with acute mania has been verbally abusive to staff ...

[Coya19@aol.com]

A patient with acute mania has been verbally abusive to staff since admission 3 hours ago. The patient says, I can't believe you have a nursing license. I am not answering your stupid questions. You should pick another career..
 
  Select the nurse's best response. a. I will return in a few minutes to continue the interview..
  b. Your behavior is unacceptable. I expect an apology from you..
  c. I will have to report your behavior to the health care provider..
  d. I have a license to practice nursing, and I am entirely competent..

Question 2

In which case would the psychiatric forensic nurse examiner assess the alleged perpetrator as competent to proceed with trial?
 
  a. The defendant believes the FBI had paid assassins to kill him.
  b. The accused hears voices commanding him to kill the president.
  c. The defendant is developmentally disabled with an IQ of 70.
  d. The accused understands the charges and the trial procedures.

[Sarahjh]

Answer to Question 1

A
Angry verbal attacks against staff by patients with mania are commonplace. Staff must realize verbal attacks are part of illness behavior rather than personal in nature. Arguing, explaining, and calling for apologies are counterproductive behaviors. Remaining neutral and allowing a cooling-down period will serve the nurse well. Because the patient's mood is labile, the patient may be willing to continue the assessment when the nurse returns.

Answer to Question 2

D
Competence to proceed is determined by the defendant's ability to understand the charges and assist in his own defense. The other options suggest mental disorder but are not necessarily pertinent to competency unless they prevent understanding of the charges and meaningful participation in the trial process.

[Coya19@aol.com]

Great answer, keep it coming

[dantucker]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it