Question

Which nursing action is most appropriate when trying to diffuse a client's impending violent behavior?

1. Helping the client identify and express feelings of anxiety and anger
2. Involving the client in a quiet activity to divert attention
3. Leaving the client alone until he can talk about his feelings
4. Placing the client in seclusion

Answer 1

The most appropriate nursing action is to help clients identify and express their feelings of anxiety and anger to prevent violent behavior. Nurses should maintain calmness, use empathy, and ensure their own safety while addressing the situation. Facility protocols for aggressive behavior should be followed if the situation escalates.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate nursing action when trying to diffuse a client's impending violent behavior is to help the client identify and express feelings of anxiety and anger. This proactive approach aims to address the underlying causes of aggression by encouraging communication and emotional awareness. Nursing staff should maintain a calm demeanor and offer a safe space for the client to discuss their feelings, which may help prevent escalation.

It is also important for nurses to assess the situation carefully and respond with empathy, without compromising their own safety. If the risk of violence is high, additional measures may be needed, and the staff should follow their facility's protocol for handling aggressive behavior. This could involve alerting other staff, ensuring a safe environment, or using de-escalation techniques tailored to the individual's needs.