A nurse uses Maslow’s hierarchy of needs to plan care for a client with psychosis. Which problem will receive priority?
A.
Needs to be taught about medication action and side effects.
B.
Refuses to eat or bathe.
C.
Is reluctant to participate in unit social activities.
D.
Reports feelings of alienation from family.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
In Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, the most basic and immediate needs must be addressed before higher-level needs can be effectively addressed. For a client with psychosis, the priority problem would be:
B. Refuses to eat or bathe.
Explanation:
Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is typically represented as a pyramid with five levels:
- Physiological Needs: These are the most fundamental needs for human survival, including food, water, shelter, and basic bodily functions.
- Safety Needs: Once physiological needs are met, individuals seek safety and security.
- Love and Belongingness Needs: Social relationships, love, and a sense of belonging are next in the hierarchy.
- Esteem Needs: This includes self-esteem and recognition from others.
- Self-Actualization Needs: The highest level involves personal growth, self-fulfillment, and achieving one’s potential.
In the context of a client with psychosis, addressing refusal to eat or bathe is the highest priority because these issues directly impact the client’s physiological needs. Without adequate nutrition and personal hygiene, the client’s health can deteriorate rapidly, which can exacerbate psychotic symptoms and compromise overall well-being.
Option A, teaching about medication action and side effects, is important but secondary to addressing immediate physiological needs. Option C, reluctance to participate in unit social activities, and Option D, feelings of alienation from family, pertain to higher levels of the hierarchy. While important, these issues are less urgent compared to the need to ensure the client’s basic survival and health through proper nutrition and hygiene.
Addressing physiological needs first ensures that the client is in a stable condition, allowing them to be more receptive and engaged in interventions that address psychological and social needs later on.