A nurse on the general medical floor of a hospital has assessed a client as having severe manifestations of a psychiatric disorder. The most beneficial action by the nurse would be to
A) arrange a consultation with a mental health specialist.
B) document the findings and leave a note for the physician.
C) encourage the client to continue taking prescribed medications.
D) not discuss the problem in order to avoid upsetting the client.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An important concept to remember when caring for clients with mental health problems, especially those who are seeking care for other reasons, is that if manifestations are severe or risk factors are significant, additional evaluation by a specialist is needed. Documenting the findings is appropriate, but the physician should be notified in a timely manner. Always encourage clients to take prescribed medications. Ignoring the problem to avoid upsetting the client is not beneficial. The best response by the nurse, who is acting as an advocate for the client, is to ensure appropriate referrals get made.

A Nurse on the General Medical Floor of a Hospital