A nurse is caring for a client: The client has returned to work at an accounting firm and has started going to a grief support group. She reports she is seeking care from a healthcare professional because her father is worried about her. The client says she only gets 2 to 3 hours of sleep due to nightmares about the crash. She informs that exercising right after work helps her get better sleep and to relax. She feels that she is "jumpy" after the accident, especially when she is in the car. She also stated, "I feel so sad that I can't seem to feel anything at all." In addition to her father, the client has a large family and friend support system. She denies alcohol or drug use. Click to highlight the areas that the nurse should react to immediately. The client has returned to work at an accounting firm and has started going to a grief support group. She reports she is seeking care from a healthcare professional because her father is worried about her. The client says she only gets 2 to 3 hours of sleep due to nightmares about the crash. She informs that exercising right after work helps her get better sleep and to relax. She feels that she is "jumpy" after the accident, especially when she is in the car. She also stated, "I feel so sad that I can't seem to feel anything at all" In addition to her father, the client has a large family and friend support system. She denies alcohol or drug use.
Explanation & Rationale
In the scenario presented, the nurse should prioritize addressing the client's sleep disturbances, heightened startle response, and feelings of sadness and numbness. These symptoms may indicate acute stress reaction or post-traumatic stress disorder, conditions that can occur after experiencing a traumatic event such as a car crash. Immediate interventions could include providing a safe and calm environment, offering support and reassurance, assessing for risk of harm to self or others, and referring to mental health professionals for further evaluation and treatment. It's also important to acknowledge the client's proactive steps, such as joining a grief support group and exercising, which are positive coping strategies. The nurse should collaborate with the client to build on these healthy habits while addressing the more distressing symptoms with appropriate care and referrals.