Question

The clinical nurse specialist is conducting an initial assessment of a client recently admitted to the acute care setting. When asked about her frequent habit of looking over her shoulder, the client became very anxious and evasive. The nurse says, "I can see that this interview is making you uncomfortable. Would you prefer to continue our discussion at a later time?" (Learning Objectives: 2 and 4) a. Discuss why the statement made by the nurse was appropriate at this time. b. Consider key physiologic conditions that should also be assessed, and indicate why these issues may have an impact on the client's mental health function.

Answer 1

The nurse's statement was appropriate as it showed empathy towards the client's discomfort. Key physiological conditions that should be assessed include neurological or sensory issues, which can impact mental health function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement made by the nurse was appropriate at this time because it showed empathy and understanding towards the client's discomfort. By acknowledging the client's anxiety and offering to continue the discussion at a later time, the nurse created a safe and supportive environment for the client to feel more comfortable sharing their concerns.

Key physiological conditions that may impact the client's mental health function and should be assessed include any neurological or sensory issues.

For example, if the client's frequent habit of looking over her shoulder is accompanied by symptoms such as pins-and-needles feeling, trouble feeling sensations, or muscle weakness in her arms and legs, it may indicate a problem with the sensory systems or nervous system. These issues can affect the client's mental health function as sensory and neurological deficits can impact one's perception and interpretation of the environment, leading to anxiety or paranoia.