Which of the following statements by the nurse is most appropriate when addressing a client with a barbiturate overdose who awakens in a confused state and exhibits stable vital signs?
1. "I'm here to help you beat your drug habit. But it's you who will need to work hard."
2. "It's time to get straight and stay clean and put an end to your torture."
3. "I'm glad you pulled through; it was touch and go with you for a while."
4. "You're in the hospital because of a drug problem; I'm one of the nurses who will help you."
Answer:
4. "You're in the hospital because of a drug problem; I'm one of the nurses who will help you."
Explanation:
Clients like the client in the question given above, who is in a confused state, need to be addressed in a calm and reassuring manner and in easy to understand terms. This would enable the client to better understand his situation and allay whatever anxiety that might arise.
Statement 1, 2 and 3 all contain vague and confusing words that seem judgmental, which will only confuse the patient the more and make him anxious.
Statement 4 is the most appropriate statement the nurse can make in addressing the client in his confused state of mind.
