Which response should the nurse give to a client with bipolar disorder who is upset about the television being turned off?

Which response should the nurse give to a client with bipolar disorder who is upset about the television being turned off?

• A. "I'll let you watch television just this once. Don't tell anyone about this."
• B. "I'll turn the television off when you get sleepy. Don't ask me to do this again."
• C. "Television hours are from 7 pm to 10 pm. It's 10 pm, and the television goes off."
• D. "The television goes off at 10 pm. I've been telling you this for the past three evenings."

Answer: (C)

The response indicating that television hours are from 7 pm to 10 pm, and that it is now 10 pm when the television is turned off, is appropriate as it provides clear information regarding established boundaries and routines. In managing clients with bipolar disorder, consistency and structure can be beneficial. This response reinforces the idea that there are specific times set for activities, which helps the client understand that rules are in place for a reason. Communicating a policy in a straightforward manner also avoids potential feelings of guilt or secretiveness that could arise from making exceptions, as might occur in the first choice. Unlike the second option, which defers action and implies a potential for further negotiation, this response adheres to the established rules without inviting further discussion or conflict. The final choice, while stating the time, implies frustration or repetition, which may not be productive in maintaining a supportive environment conducive to the client's emotional stability. Overall, prioritizing structure while maintaining a calm demeanor helps manage the client's expectations and emotions effectively, which is crucial in settings where mood stabilization is a focus.

The response indicating that television hours are from 7 pm to 10 pm, and that it is now 10 pm when the television is turned off, is appropriate as it provides clear information regarding established boundaries and routines. In managing clients with bipolar disorder, consistency and structure can be beneficial. This response reinforces the idea that there are specific times set for activities, which helps the client understand that rules are in place for a reason.

Communicating a policy in a straightforward manner also avoids potential feelings of guilt or secretiveness that could arise from making exceptions, as might occur in the first choice. Unlike the second option, which defers action and implies a potential for further negotiation, this response adheres to the established rules without inviting further discussion or conflict. The final choice, while stating the time, implies frustration or repetition, which may not be productive in maintaining a supportive environment conducive to the client's emotional stability.

Overall, prioritizing structure while maintaining a calm demeanor helps manage the client's expectations and emotions effectively, which is crucial in settings where mood stabilization is a focus.