The community health nurse is visiting a patient diagnosed with dysfunctional grieving since the death of his wife and child over a year ago. Which actions should the nurse implement first?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Assessing the risk of self-directed violence is the priority when dealing with a patient diagnosed with dysfunctional grieving. Individuals experiencing complicated grief may be at an increased risk for self-harm or suicidal ideation. By assessing the risk of self-directed violence first, the nurse can ensure the patient's safety and provide appropriate interventions if necessary. Once the risk is assessed and managed, the nurse can then proceed with other interventions such as promoting interaction with others and facilitating the expression of feelings related to the loss.

Correct Answer: B, C

Rationale: he immunologic theory of aging suggests that aging is associated with increased autoimmunity. Conditions like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Graves’ disease reflect immune dysfunction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The best response for the nurse’s mentor would be to highlight the importance of activities in mental health nursing. Participating in activities such as playing cards or games with patients is not just about passing time, but it also serves a therapeutic purpose. Engaging in activities helps patients to develop social skills, build relationships, and take small risks in a safe environment. As mental health nurses, it is crucial to understand that these activities are not a waste of time but rather an essential part of the therapeutic process. By participating in activities with patients, nurses can actively support their mental well-being and contribute to their overall treatment and recovery.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When leading a therapeutic group, the nurse's role as the group's executive involves setting and maintaining boundaries, ensuring adherence to the group's rules, and creating a safe and structured environment for all members. Restating rules when a new member joins helps to establish expectations and maintain consistency within the group. It allows the nurse to assert authority and guide the group in a direction that is conducive to therapeutic progress. By upholding the rules and boundaries of the group, the nurse helps to create a sense of safety and trust among the members, allowing for open and productive communication and shared growth.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Offering to be present and help the patient discuss her feelings about the incident with the other patient would best support the patient’s feelings of safety when experimenting with new ways of being. This option encourages open communication between the two patients in a safe and mediated environment. It allows the patient to express her feelings assertively while feeling supported by the nurse manager. Mediation can help both patients understand each other's perspectives, resolve conflicts, and potentially prevent similar incidents in the future. Ultimately, this approach empowers the patient to address the situation directly while providing a sense of safety and support.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Anticipatory grieving involves preparing emotionally for the upcoming loss. The patient may begin to focus on caregiving and emotional preparation. Agreeing to care for the spouse with assistance reflects an adaptive coping mechanism during this period.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse is most likely to need to schedule a pre-electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) workup and teaching for Patient D, who has depression associated with the diagnosis of an inoperable brain tumor. In such cases, ECT may be considered as a treatment option due to the severity of the depression and the limitations in using other treatments. Before ECT can be initiated in a patient with such complex medical conditions, it is crucial to conduct a thorough evaluation and preparation process, which includes obtaining informed consent, assessing the patient's medical history, conducting pre-ECT laboratory tests, and providing patient and family education about the procedure. Given the unique circumstances of Patient D's inoperable brain tumor, the nurse must ensure all necessary steps are taken to ensure the safety and efficacy of ECT as a treatment option.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A therapeutic milieu is characterized by focusing on the needs and goals of the patients. By establishing specific patient-centered goals that are agreed upon mutually by the patient and the staff, it ensures that the care provided is individualized and tailored to the patient's needs. This approach fosters a collaborative and empowering environment where the patient feels heard and supported in their recovery journey. It also promotes a sense of ownership and accountability for both the patient and the staff in working towards these goals together. In contrast, rigid adherence to timelines and unit routine (option A) may not always take into account the unique needs of each patient, and relaxation of boundaries (option B) can potentially compromise the therapeutic process by blurring professional boundaries. Therefore, establishing patient-centered goals is a key component of creating a therapeutic environment on a nursing unit.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Remotivation therapy focuses on stimulating engagement and interaction in patients who are socially withdrawn or have limited emotional responses. It helps the individual reconnect with their environment and others.