A newly admitted client with schizophrenia has been exhibiting severe social withdrawal, odd mannerisms, and regressive behavior. The client is sitting alone in the room when the nurse enters, says "good morning," and proceeds to sit down next to the client. Without responding, the client stands up and starts to leave. Which of the following actions is bestfor the nurse to take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecbb05_cc31_3509_b433_dff11b27b935_MD0009_00 Clients with schizophrenia often become anxious when around other individuals and will seek to be alone to relieve anxiety. Impaired social and interpersonal functioning (eg, social withdrawal, poor social interaction skills) are common negative symptoms of schizophrenia. These are more difficult to treat than the positive symptoms (eg, hallucinations, delusions) and contribute to a poor quality of life. Nursing interventions directed at improving the social interaction skills of a client with schizophrenia include the following: Making brief, frequent contacts Accepting the client unconditionally by minimizing expectations and demands Assessing the client's readiness for longer contacts with the nurse and/or other staff and clients Being with or close by the client during group activities Offering positive reinforcement when the client interacts with others (Option A) Asking where this client is going is nontherapeutic as it requires an explanation of the client's actions. (Option B) Following this client out the door could increase the client's anxiety. (Option C) Directing this client to come back to the room is placing a demand that may be unrealistic and does not help develop a sense of trust. Educational objective: Social isolation and impaired social interaction are common negative symptoms of schizophrenia. The client will seek to be alone to relieve anxiety associated with being around others. The nurse needs to be accepting of the client's behavior and continue attempts at brief contact until the client is comfortable.

A Newly Admitted Client with Schizophrenia Has Been Exhibiting Severe