Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has substance-induced psychotic disorder and is experiencing auditory hallucinations. The client states, "The voices won't leave me alone!" Which of the following statements by the nurse are appropriate? (SATA)

A. "When did you start hearing the voices?"
B. "The voices are not real, or else we would both hear them."
C. "It must be scary to hear voices."
D. "Are the voices telling you to hurt yourself?"
E. "Why are the voices talking to only you?"

ATI RN Mental Health Nursing Modules Ch. 14 Notes

Answer 1

The nurse should ask about the onset of the voices and express empathy towards the client without invalidating their experience.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate statements by the nurse in this situation would be:

1. "When did you start hearing the voices?" This question allows the nurse to gather more information about the client's symptoms and helps with the assessment and diagnosis process.
2. "It must be scary to hear voices." This statement acknowledges the client's experience and shows empathy towards their situation.

The other options are not appropriate:

1. "The voices are not real, or else we would both hear them." This statement undermines the client's perception and can be invalidating.
2. "Are the voices telling you to hurt yourself?" This question can be distressing for the client and may worsen their symptoms.
3. "Why are the voices talking to only you?" This question assumes that the client has control over the voices and may contribute to their feelings of guilt or shame.