Substance Abuse and Abuse Q 64
A client was admitted to the psychiatric unit for severe depression. After several days, the client continues to withdraw from other clients. Which of the following would be the most appropriate statement by the nurse to promote interaction with other clients?
A. "Your doctor thinks it's good for you to spend time with others."
B. "It is important for you to participate in group activities."
C. "Painting this picture will help you feel better."
D. "Come play Chinese Checkers with Gerry and me."
Correct Answer: D. “Come play Chinese Checkers with Gerry and me.”
This gradually engages the client in interactions with others and uses positive behavioral expectation. Initially, provide activities that require minimal concentration (e.g., drawing, playing simple board games). Depressed people lack concentration and memory. Activities that have no “right or wrong” or “winner or loser” minimizes opportunities for the client to put himself/herself down.
Option A: When the client is at the most depressed state, Involve the client in one-to-one activity. Maximizes the potential for interactions while minimizing anxiety levels. Involve the client in gross motor activities that call for very little concentration (e.g., walking). Such activities will aid in relieving tensions and might help in elevating the mood.
Option B: Eventually involve the client in group activities (e.g., group discussions, art therapy, dance therapy). Socialization minimizes feelings of isolation. Genuine regard for others can increase feelings of self-worth. Eventually maximize the client’s contacts with others (first one other, then two others, etc.). Contact with others distracts the client from self-preoccupation.
Option C: Allow the patient to engage in simple recreational activities, advancing to more complex activities in a group environment. The patient may feel overwhelmed at the start when participating in a group setting. Encourage the client to participate in a group therapy where the members share the same situations/feelings that they have to minimize the feelings of isolation and provide an atmosphere where positive feedback and a more realistic appraisal of self are available.