A suspicious and socially isolated patient lives alone, eats one meal a day at a nearby shelter, and spends the remaining daily food allowance on cigarettes. Select the community psychiatric nurse's best initial action.

A) Report the situation to the manager of the shelter.
B) Tell the patient, "You must stop smoking to save money."
C) Assess the patient's weight; determine the foods and amounts eaten.
D) Seek hospitalization for the patient while a new plan is being formulated.

Question

Elizabeth Melton · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : C, Explanation :  Assessment of biopsychosocial needs and general ability to live in the community is called for before any action is taken. Both nutritional status and income adequacy are critical assessment parameters. A patient may be able to maintain adequate nutrition while eating only one meal a day. Nurses assess before taking action. Hospitalization may not be necessary.

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