The parents of a client diagnosed with schizophrenia and alcohol use disorder asks the nurse, "What can we do to help our child from relapsing after discharge from the hospital?" Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Relapse is frequently secondary to medication nonadherence, especially if clients experience side effects associated with the use of antipsychotics. Nursing interventions that focus on medication compliance may reduce the chances of relapse. These agents treat the symptoms of schizophrenia but also appear to reduce the cue-trigger cravings of the substances and prevent relapse. Therefore, compliance is key. A confrontational interactive approach will not benefit this population and could even alienate clients. A more supportive approach is appropriate, in which relapses are treated as an expected part of the recovery process. Addressing relapse risk is part of treatment planning. The nurse should focus on examining behavior, feelings, and the thinking process that led to the relapse. The nurse must avoid blame and guilt-inducing statements.

The Parents of a Client Diagnosed with Schizophrenia and Alcohol