Fundamentals of Nursing Q 468
A client appears upset and tearful, but denies pain and refuses pain medication, because “my sibling is a drug addict and has ruined our lives.” What is the priority intervention for this client?
A. Encourage expression of fears on past experiences.
B. Provide accurate information about the use of pain medication.
C. Explain that addiction is unlikely among acute care clients.
D. Seek family assistance in resolving this problem.
Correct Answer: A. Encourage expression of fears on past experiences.
This client has strong beliefs and emotions related to the issue of sibling addiction. First, encourage expression. This indicated to the client that the feelings are real and valid. It is also an opportunity to assess beliefs and fears. Verbalization of feelings in a nonthreatening environment may help the client come to terms with unresolved issues.
Option B: Giving facts and information is appropriate at the right time. Clients are often reluctant to share feelings for fear of ridicule and may have repeatedly been told to ignore feelings. Once the client begins to acknowledge and talk about these fears, it becomes apparent that the feelings are manageable.
Option C: Encourage the client to explore underlying feelings that may be contributing to irrational fears. Help the client to understand how facing these feelings, rather than suppressing them, can result in more adaptive coping abilities.
Option D: Family involvement is important, bearing in mind that their beliefs about drug addiction may be similar to those of the client. Present and discuss the reality of the situation with the client in order to recognize aspects that can be changed and those that cannot. The client must accept the reality of the situation before the work of reducing the fear can progress.