A patient's spouse asks a nurse, "Why are they wasting money doing all these tests on my spouse? The hallucinations and delusions make the mental illness obvious!" The best reply would be:

a. "Don't be upset. We are using the most modern approach to caring for your spouse.".
b. "I know you must be worried about costs, but having these tests is very necessary.".
c. "Physical illnesses can cause psychiatric symptoms. We must be sure of what we are treating.".
d. "I think that you are upset about your spouse's illness and not thinking clearly. To avoid harm, physical illness must be ruled out.".


C
Only after a patient has been carefully screened can it be determined that the problems are amenable to psychiatric intervention. These symptoms can be a result of a physiological problem and this situation must be assessed appropriately. It is never appropriate to be disrespectful or demeaning to a patient or family members.

Nursing

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