Which factors are the most essential for the nurse to assess when providing crisis intervention for a client?
A. The client’s communication and coping skills.
B. The client’s anxiety level and ability to express feelings.
C. The client’s perception of the triggering event and availability of situational supports.
D. The client’s use of reality testing and level of depression.
Correct Answer: C. The client’s perception of the triggering event and availability of situational supports
The most important factors to determine in these situations are the client’s perception of the crisis event and the availability of support (including family and friends) to provide basic needs. Crisis intervention is a short-term management technique designed to reduce potential permanent damage to an individual affected by a crisis. A crisis is defined as an overwhelming event, which can include divorce, violence, the passing of a loved one, or the discovery of a serious illness.
Option A: A successful intervention involves obtaining background information on the patient, establishing a positive relationship, discussing the events, and providing emotional support. SAFER-R is a common intervention model used, which consists of stabilization, acknowledgment, facilitate understanding, encouragement, recovery, and referral. SAFER-R helps patients return to their mental baseline following a crisis.
Option B: In these cases, psychological crisis intervention is necessary to prevent traumatized victims from developing illnesses. It also alleviates stress upon healthcare workers so that they can continue helping others. Another major concern is what coping strategies are most effective. Social support and problem-solving planning are effective coping mechanisms that are frequently used by school staff following a crisis.
Option D: Although the nurse should assess the other factors, they are not as essential as determining why the client considers this a crisis and whether he can meet his present needs. The use of humor, emotional support, planning, and acceptance also correlate with superior mental health outcomes compared to substance abuse and denial. Positive coping mechanisms, such as the ones listed above, are reported to be effective in crisis management, and with crisis intervention services in place, people will be better equipped to handle unexpected events.