The nurse is caring for a 70-year-old psychiatric patient who has been prescribed a number of medications. When teaching the patient about the medications, which explanation would be most appropriate?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. As individuals age, changes in liver functioning can lead to slower metabolism and clearance of medications from the body. This can result in medication levels accumulating in the system, potentially leading to toxicity. This explanation is important for the patient to understand the risks associated with their medications. Choice A is incorrect because the speed of stomach emptying does not necessarily impact medication effects. Choice B is incorrect as the entire GI system speeding up is not a typical age-related change and does not necessarily affect medication digestion. Choice D is incorrect as age-related circulation changes do not necessarily mean medications are delivered more quickly to specific body sites.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: perform a client strengths assessment. This is essential to keep the plan client-centered by focusing on the individual's positive attributes and resources. By identifying the client's strengths, the nurse can tailor interventions that build on these assets to empower the client in managing the risk factors for substance misuse. A: Contacting a rehab center for an intake assessment is premature without fully assessing the client's strengths and individualized needs first. C: Asking the psychiatrist to screen for depression is important but does not directly address keeping the plan client-centered and focusing on strengths. D: Completing a health assessment is necessary but does not specifically address the client's strengths and may not fully support client-centered care.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because clubhouse programs are known for being primarily run by psychiatric patients with minimal assistance from mental health staff. This model emphasizes empowerment, peer support, and self-help. It promotes a sense of community and belonging among members, allowing individuals to take an active role in their recovery. Choice A is incorrect because clubhouses are not typically open 24 hours a day. They usually operate during standard business hours. Choice B is incorrect because clubhouses are not run entirely by psychiatric mental health nurses. While mental health staff may be present, the focus is on peer support and collaboration among members. Choice C is incorrect because the primary focus of clubhouses is not on providing ongoing intensive psychotherapy. Instead, they emphasize socialization, skill-building, and vocational support in a non-clinical setting.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because effective nurse-patient communication is guided by principles of empathy, respect, and genuine concern. Patients value feeling understood and supported, which can foster trust and rapport. This approach helps alleviate the nurse's fear of saying the wrong thing by emphasizing the importance of good intentions and empathy. Choice B is incorrect because it assumes the patient is solely focused on talking and not listening, which can undermine effective communication. Choice C is incorrect because a patient's history does not guarantee immunity to harm from insensitive comments. Choice D is incorrect as it incorrectly generalizes about individuals with mental illness and forgiveness tolerance.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because providing easily accessible finger foods throughout the day increases input, ensuring the patient with dementia receives adequate nutrition. This approach helps maintain their energy levels and prevents malnutrition. Choice B is incorrect because anorexia is not necessarily the reason for providing finger foods. Choice C is incorrect as finger foods may not necessarily assist in monitoring food intake. Choice D is incorrect as the primary rationale for providing finger foods is to increase input, not specifically to prevent constipation.