Question

On an oncology unit, the nurse hears noises coming from a client's room. the client is found throwing objects at the walls and has just picked up the phone and is screaming, "how can god do this to me? it is the third type of cancer i have had. i have gone through all the treatment for nothing." in what order of priority from first to last should the nurse make the interventions? all options must be used.

Answer 1

The nurse should first assess the patient for any injuries to themselves. Once it has been established that the patient is unharmed, therapeutic communication needs to be initiated. It is important to actively listen and empathize with what the patient is trying to say. Engage the patient in positive communication and discuss treatment options. The nurse will need to evaluate the situation as a whole and if it gets out of control and the patient poses a threat to themselves, the nurse can contact their charge nurse to see what other options can be done. Perhaps he/she may also consider contacting the doctor for pharmacological interventions if the patient is unable to calm themselves down?