The psychiatric nurse is talking to a newly admitted client when another male client, who is diagnosed with antisocial behavior, intrudes on the conversation and tells the nurse, "I have to talk to you right now! It is very important!" How should the nurse respond to this client?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Inform him that the nurse is busy admitting a new client and will talk to him later: Setting clear and respectful boundaries is crucial when working with clients who have antisocial behavior. This response maintains structure, discourages manipulation, and communicates that the nurse will respond at an appropriate time. B. Encourage him to go to the nurse's station and talk with another nurse: Redirecting may appear dismissive and does not help reinforce boundaries. It may also escalate the client’s behavior if he feels ignored or shuffled around. C. Introduce him to the newly admitted client and ask him to join in the conversation: Involving a client with antisocial traits in another’s admission may be inappropriate and intrusive. It risks violating the new client’s privacy and could create discomfort or safety concerns. D. Put his behavior on extinction (do not acknowledge it) and continue talking with the newly admitted client: Ignoring the behavior entirely can be perceived as disrespectful or provoke escalation. Structured, assertive communication is more effective than silence.