Level: Clinical
Difficulty: Medium
Subtopic: Substance use disorders
NCLEX: A 31-year-old client on an inpatient psychiatric unit is being evaluated for alcohol withdrawal risk. Assessment…
Psychiatric / mental health nursing Psychosocial Integrity
Case Study
A 31-year-old client on an inpatient psychiatric unit is being evaluated for alcohol withdrawal risk. Assessment data include the client is withdrawn, flat affect, and refusing meals for 2 days. Which communication to the oncoming nurse or provider is most appropriate?
Question
A. "The client is doing fine; no issues to report."
B. SBAR format with specific objective findings, current status, and a clear recommendation.
C. Vague statements without measurable assessment data.
D. Blaming the client for nonadherence instead of stating facts.
B. SBAR format with specific objective findings, current status, and a clear recommendation.
C. Vague statements without measurable assessment data.
D. Blaming the client for nonadherence instead of stating facts.
Rationale
Correct answer: B. SBAR format with specific objective findings, current status, and a clear recommendation.
Rationale: Handoff and escalation require concise, objective communication such as SBAR with current assessment data.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.
Rationale: Handoff and escalation require concise, objective communication such as SBAR with current assessment data.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.