Final answer:
An 18-year-old client with a history of visual and auditory hallucinations may face disordered thoughts, cognitive impairments, and memory challenges while attempting tasks. These symptoms are often seen in conditions such as schizophrenia and can interfere with the client's day-to-day functioning. Medications used to treat the condition can further complicate their ability to perform tasks.
Step-by-step explanation:
An 18-year-old client with a psychiatric condition that includes visual and auditory hallucinations, described as an uninterrupted 18-month period of illness, would likely encounter several challenges when attempting to perform tasks. As an Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR®), one would expect to see issues related to disordered thoughts, cognitive functioning impairment, and difficulties with memory and concentration. These symptoms are commonly associated with severe mental illnesses like schizophrenia, and can impact the client's ability to engage in activities and follow through with tasks.
Tasks like the three-word recall test or reciting the months backward may be particularly challenging. The hallucinations and delusions can be distracting and make it hard for the client to focus on the task at hand. Furthermore, the cognitive impairment may affect their ability to process instructions and implement tasks effectively, especially those that require organization, planning, and working memory.
Additionally, neuroleptic drugs, often prescribed for such conditions, can cause side effects like reduced initiative and emotional expression, which might also negatively affect task performance. The client may display less interest in the environment and have diminished aggressive or impulsive behaviors but could also appear withdrawn or less communicative.