A client who uses cocaine denies that drug use is a problem. What is the best intervention by the nurse?

A client who uses cocaine denies that drug use is a problem. What is the best intervention by the nurse?

• A. State ways to cope with stress.
• B. Repeat the drug facts as needed.
• C. Identify the client's ambivalence.
• D. Use open-ended, factual questions.

Answer: (D)

Using open-ended, factual questions is the most effective intervention in this scenario because it encourages the client to express their thoughts and feelings regarding their drug use. This approach promotes dialogue, allowing the client to explore their ambivalence without feeling attacked or judged. By facilitating a conversation, the nurse can help the client reflect on their substance use, helping to uncover underlying issues and their personal perception of the problem. This intervention is particularly valuable because it respects the client's autonomy and may assist them in recognizing discrepancies between their beliefs and behaviors. It can lead to greater self-awareness, which is a crucial step in the change process. Open-ended questions also promote a therapeutic relationship by demonstrating interest and concern for the client's perspective. Explaining ways to cope with stress or repeating drug facts may not address the client's resistance to acknowledging their substance use problems. These strategies could be perceived as dismissive of the client's current perspective and may not facilitate deeper understanding or discussion. Identifying the client's ambivalence is important, but it is best done through open dialogue rather than in directed statements or labels. Engaging the client in conversation through open-ended questions lays the groundwork for recognizing and addressing their ambivalence effectively.

Using open-ended, factual questions is the most effective intervention in this scenario because it encourages the client to express their thoughts and feelings regarding their drug use. This approach promotes dialogue, allowing the client to explore their ambivalence without feeling attacked or judged. By facilitating a conversation, the nurse can help the client reflect on their substance use, helping to uncover underlying issues and their personal perception of the problem.

This intervention is particularly valuable because it respects the client's autonomy and may assist them in recognizing discrepancies between their beliefs and behaviors. It can lead to greater self-awareness, which is a crucial step in the change process. Open-ended questions also promote a therapeutic relationship by demonstrating interest and concern for the client's perspective.

Explaining ways to cope with stress or repeating drug facts may not address the client's resistance to acknowledging their substance use problems. These strategies could be perceived as dismissive of the client's current perspective and may not facilitate deeper understanding or discussion. Identifying the client's ambivalence is important, but it is best done through open dialogue rather than in directed statements or labels. Engaging the client in conversation through open-ended questions lays the groundwork for recognizing and addressing their ambivalence effectively.