A bipolar client with acute mania has been verbally abusive to staff since admission 3 hours ago
He
tells the admitting nurse she'd probably make a better call girl than a nurse and refuses to answer
assessment questions, saying "If you can't work with patients they'll eventually fire you.". The nurse
should
a. explain to the client that she holds a degree in nursing and is entirely competent.
b. tell the client his behavior is unacceptable and requires an apology.
c. state she will return in a few minutes to continue the interview.
d. tell the client she will report his behavior to the physician.
C
Angry verbal attacks against staff by clients with mania are commonplace. Staff must realize verbal
attacks are part of illness behavior rather than personal in nature. Arguing, explaining, calling for
apologies are counterproductive behaviors. Remaining neutral and allowing a cooling-down period
will serve the nurse well. Because the client's mood is labile, the client may be willing to continue
the assessment when the nurse returns.
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