The nurse is caring for a patient who is diagnosed with both schizophrenia and cocaine abuse. The patient remains isolated in his room, refusing to attend unit activities. When implementing a behavioral approach, what is the first step the nurse should take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A behavioral approach starts with a careful description and quantification of a concrete behavior requiring change. During the third step of implementing a behavioral approach, the nurse and patient reframe the problem as a solution statement (e.g., "The patient will attend all scheduled unit activities."). If the problem and solution are complex, the nurse can break them down into simpler definitions, beginning with the simplest and most likely behavior to stimulate patient interest. The nurse should identify the tasks in sequential order; define specific consequences, positive and negative, for behavioral responses; and solicit the patient's cooperation.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Diagnosed