Personality and Mood Disorders Q 80
The client says “ the FBI is out to get me.” The nurse’s best response is:
A. “The FBI is not out to catch you.”
B. “I don’t believe that.”
C. “I don’t know anything about that. You are afraid of being harmed.”
D. “ What made you think of that.”
Correct Answer: C. “I don’t know anything about that. You are afraid of being harmed.”
This presents reality and acknowledges the client’s feelings. Interact with clients on the basis of things in the environment. Try to distract the client from their delusions by engaging in reality-based activities (e.g., card games, simple arts and crafts projects etc). When thinking is focused on reality-based activities, the client is free of delusional thinking during that time. Helps focus attention externally.
Option A: Initially do not argue with the client’s beliefs or try to convince the client that the delusions are false and unreal. Arguing will only increase a client’s defensive position, thereby reinforcing false beliefs. This will result in the client feeling even more isolated and misunderstood.
Option B: This statement is not a therapeutic response because these disagree with the client’s false belief and makes the client feel challenged. Attempt to understand the significance of these beliefs to the client at the time of their presentation. Important clues to underlying fears and issues can be found in the client’s seemingly illogical fantasies.
Option D: This statement is an unnecessary exploration of the false. Identify feelings related to delusions. If a client believes someone is going to harm him/her, the client is experiencing fear. When people believe that they are understood, anxiety might lessen.