Question

A client voluntarily admitted to the inpatient psychiatric unit is currently experiencing mild delirium. The client approaches the nurse and states, I'm going to take a walk outside. I'll be back in about 10 minutes. Which is the most appropriate nursing action?

a) Allow the client to go for a walk unsupervised.
b) Escort the client for a walk while closely monitoring behavior.
c) Encourage the client to stay in the room until assessed by a doctor.
d) Restrict the client to their room for safety reasons.

Answer 1

The most appropriate nursing action for a client with mild delirium who wants to walk outside is escorting them while monitoring their behavior. This ensures safety and allows for continuous assessment.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a client on an inpatient psychiatric unit who is experiencing mild delirium and expresses a desire to take a walk outside, the most appropriate nursing action is b) Escort the client for a walk while closely monitoring behavior. This answer takes into account both the client's autonomy and need for a therapeutic environment, as well as the safety and security concerns due to the client's current mental state. Allowing an unsupervised walk could pose a risk given the client's delirium, while strict confinement without a medical rationale or assessment may be inappropriate and could escalate the situation.

By choosing to escort the client and ensuring close monitoring, the nurse is providing support and observation that can help in the assessment of the client's condition. If any concerning behavior is observed, the client can be guided back to the unit promptly. The therapeutic support offered by the nurse during the walk can also provide an opportunity to engage the client in further assessing their mental and emotional state.