A 56-year-old psychiatric inpatient has had recurring episodes of depression and chronic low self-esteem. She feels that her family does not want her around, experiences a sense of helplessness, and has a negative view of herself. To assist the client in focusing on her strengths and positive traits, a strategy used by the nurse would be to:
- Tell the client to attend all structured activities on the unit
- Encourage or direct client to attend activities that offer simple methods to attain success
- Increase the client's self-esteem by asking that she make all decisions regarding attendance in group activities
- Not allow any dependent behaviors by the client because she must learn independence and will have to ask for any assistance from staff
Answer(s): B
Explanation:
(A) The nurse should encourage activities gradually, as client's energy level and tolerance for shared activities improve. (B) Activities that focus on strengths and accomplishments, with uncomplicated tasks, minimize failure and increase self-worth. (C) Asking a client to set a goal to make all decisions about attending group activities is unrealistic, and such decisions are not always under the client's control; this sets up the client for further failure and possibly decreased self-worth. (D) Encouragement toward independence does promote increased feelings of selfworth; however, clients may need assistance with decision making and problem solving for various situations and on an individual basis.
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