A patient's sibling says, "My brother has a mental illness, but the doctor ordered a functional magnetic resonance image (fMRI) test. That test is too expensive and will just increase the hospital bill." Select the nurse's best responses
Select all that apply.
a. "Sometimes there are physical causes for psychiatric symptoms. This test will help us understand whether that is the situation."
b. "Some mental illnesses are evident on fMRIs. This test will give information to help us plan the best care for your brother."
c. "Tell me more about what kinds of tests your brother's health insurance plan covers."
d. "It sounds like you do not truly believe your brother had a mental illness."
e. "It would be better for you to discuss your concerns with the doctor."
ANS: A, B
The correct responses provide information to the sibling. Modern imaging techniques are important tools in assessing molecular changes in mental disease and marking the receptor sites of drug action, which can help in treatment planning. Psychiatric symptoms can be caused by anatomical or physiologic abnormalities. There is no evidence of denial in the sibling's comment. The nurse can answer this question rather than referring it to the physician. It would be inappropriate to discuss finances with the patient's sibling.
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