A nurse is caring for a client who was recently re-admitted for relapse of psychosis symptoms due to not taking their medications. Which of the follow should be a long-term goal for this client?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: A long-term goal focuses on sustainable outcomes that prevent future hospitalizations. Developing a relapse prevention plan addresses the root cause of the current admission—medication non-adherence. This empowers the client to recognize early warning signs of decomposing mental status and establishes a structured protocol for maintaining stability in the community setting. Choice B reason: Participating in daily walks is a short-term, process-oriented goal focused on immediate physical activity and social interaction within the milieu. While it promotes current well-being and helps manage psychomotor agitation, it does not provide the long-term clinical framework necessary to prevent the recurrence of psychotic symptoms after discharge. Choice C reason: Reorientation is an acute nursing intervention used primarily for clients experiencing delirium, dementia, or severe disorganization during the peak of psychosis. This is a short-term safety and cognitive support measure. It does not qualify as a long-term goal, as long-term goals should focus on the client's autonomous functioning. Choice D reason: Maintaining a low-stimulus environment is a nursing-led environmental intervention appropriate for the acute phase of psychosis to prevent sensory overload. This is a management strategy rather than a client-centered long-term goal, as it does not teach the client how to navigate the naturally stimulating outside world independently.