A person has had difficulty keeping a job because of arguing with ...

[cdr_15]

A person has had difficulty keeping a job because of arguing with co-workers and accusing them of conspiracy. Today the person shouts, They're all plotting to destroy me. Isn't that true? Select the nurse's most therapeutic response.
 
  a. Everyone here is trying to help you. No one wants to harm you.
  b. Feeling that people want to destroy you must be very frightening.
  c. No, that is not true. People here are trying to help you if you will let them.
  d. Staff members are health care professionals who are qualified to help you.

Question 2

A patient tells the nurse, I am so ashamed of being bipolar. When I'm manic, my behavior embarrasses my family. Even if I take my medication, there's no guarantee I won't have a relapse. I am such a burden to my family.
 
  These statements support which nursing diagnoses? Select all that apply.
 
  a. Powerlessness
  b. Defensive coping
  c. Chronic low self-esteem
  d. Impaired social interaction
  e. Risk-prone health behavior

[sultana.d]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Resist focusing on content; instead, focus on the feelings the patient is expressing. This strategy prevents arguing about the reality of delusional beliefs. Such arguments increase patient anxiety and the tenacity with which the patient holds to the delusion. The other options focus on content and provide opportunity for argument.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, C
Chronic low self-esteem and powerlessness are interwoven in the patient's statements. No data support the other diagnoses.