A nurse is developing a plan of care for a client who has schizophrenia and is experiencing auditory hallucinations. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan?

A) Avoid eye contact with the client: Avoiding eye contact can create a sense of distance and may not promote a therapeutic relationship. Establishing appropriate eye contact can help convey attentiveness and support, even in clients experiencing hallucinations. B) Encourage the client to lie down in a quiet room: While a quiet environment can be calming, simply lying down may not effectively address the hallucinations. Active engagement and coping strategies are often needed to help the client manage their symptoms. C) Ask the client directly what he is hearing: This action is appropriate and therapeutic. By asking the client about their auditory hallucinations, the nurse validates the client’s experience and can help guide the conversation to better understand their perceptions and needs. This can also assist in developing coping strategies. D) Refer to the hallucinations as if they are real: Acknowledging hallucinations as real can reinforce the delusional experience rather than helping the client to cope with or understand their symptoms. It is essential to approach the subject sensitively while maintaining a focus on reality, promoting safety and support.