During his first interview at the crisis center, a patient who is having difficulty coping with divorce proceedings tells the nurse he has usually been able to talk over problems with his sister

Question

He also states he finds playing the guitar relaxing, but it was loud, and he had given it up when he became an apartment dweller. He mentions that he is an alcoholic but has been in recovery for the past 4 years, though he is afraid the stress might cause him to relapse. Which of the following options would be appropriate for the nurse to recommend to enhance the patient's coping? Select all that apply. a. Visiting his sister to talk about his feelings and situation
b. Finding a place to play guitar that won't disturb others
c. Returning to the clinic for daily sessions during the coming week
d. Attending AA meetings more frequently until the crisis passes
e. Taking a drug similar to diazepam but which has fewer side effects
f. Learning assertiveness skills to protect his rights during the proceedings

Answer 1

A, B, D, F
His sister has been an effective source of support in the past, and it is realistic that he can reconnect with her for this purpose. Playing guitar has also been stress-reducing, and he can overcome the noise obstacle to playing by finding a more secluded or soundproof area to play in. Attending AA meetings can provide support from persons who share his addiction history and are likely to be empathetic; this is especially helpful for persons under stress and vulnerable to relapse. Assertiveness skills could increase his confidence and reduce his sense of powerlessness over the divorce proceedings. However, daily counseling sessions are not clinically indicated unless other coping options are inadequate, and that does not appear to be the case here. Benzodiazepines are similar in action and effects to alcohol and could increase the chance of relapse or be abused themselves.