Question

The nurse is caring for several patients in an inpatient mental health unit. Which patient would be described as having a behavioral crisis?

1) The patient waving fists, cursing, and shouting threats at a nurse
2) The patient curled up in a corner of the bathroom, wrapped in a towel
3) The patient performing push-ups in the middle of the hall forcing others to walk around
4) The patient crying hysterically after receiving a phone call from a family member

Answer 1

The patient demonstrating aggressive behavior by waving fists, cursing, and shouting threats at a nurse would be described as having a behavioral crisis. This behavior is disruptive and dangerous, necessitating immediate intervention. Caregiver well-being and training are important in effectively managing such crises.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient described as having a behavioral crisis is one who exhibits behavior that is markedly disruptive, potentially dangerous, and requiring immediate intervention. In the context of a mental health unit, a behavioral crisis might manifest as aggressive, violent, or unpredictable actions. Considering the provided scenarios, the patient waving fists, cursing, and shouting threats at a nurse would be described as having a behavioral crisis. This behavior presents an immediate safety concern to both the patient and those around them and likely necessitates rapid de-escalation strategies.

Caregiver attitudes and training are crucial in managing such situations effectively. The survey from Florida highlights the risks of verbal aggression as a conflict resolution style among caregivers, particularly in instances of low job satisfaction and burnout. This suggests the importance of caregiver well-being and training in the prevention and management of patient crises.