Question

A client with chronic schizophrenia is seen monthly by a community mental health nurse for administration of fluphenazine (Prolixin Decanoate). The client refuses medication at one regularly scheduled monthly visit. Which nursing intervention is ethically appropriate?

A.) Allow the client to decline taking the medication.
B.) Inform the client that the medication must be taken to avoid hospitalization.
C.) Arrange with a relative to add medication to the client's morning orange juice.
D.) Call for help to hold the client down while the shot is administered.

Answer 1

The ethically appropriate intervention is to allow the client to decline the medication while ensuring the client is informed about the consequences. Coercion or deceptive measures are not ethically permissible.

Step-by-step explanation:

The ethical consideration in the scenario provided revolves around respecting the client's autonomy while also considering the client's wellbeing. The appropriate nursing intervention is A. Allow the client to decline taking the medication. It is essential to respect the client's right to refuse treatment, in accordance with ethical and legal standards. A healthcare provider must provide the necessary information about the benefits and potential risks associated with not taking the medication, also known as informed consent, enabling the client to make an informed decision.

Option B, informing the client that medication must be taken to avoid hospitalization, may be seen as coercive. Option C, arranging with a relative to add medication to the client’s drink, breaches ethical principles of honesty and informed consent. Option D, calling for help to forcibly administer the medication, is an infringement on the client's rights and could be considered an assault, also violating ethical and legal standards.