A patient presents in crisis.She tells the nurse,"I cannot take it anymore! It has to stop.Last year my husband had an affair,and we do not communicate anymore.Three months ago I found a lump in my breast,and yesterday my 20-year-old daughter told me she is quitting college and moving to another state with her boyfriend." After making the assessment that the patient's nuclear family is unable to provide the patient with sufficient support,which intervention would be most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The assessment of supports should continue;even though the patient's nuclear family may not be supportive,other supportive family or peers may be available.An inpatient or crisis center admission would be an option for a patient at risk for self-harm or decompensating emotionally,but typically this would not be sought otherwise,unless outpatient interventions were proving inadequate to stabilizing her.Allowing her to vent,exploring concerns,and building insight are therapeutic responses but are of lower priority than establishing a system of support outside of the counseling relationship.

A Patient Presents in Crisis