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.
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.
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