Which decision did you select? Why did you select this decision? Support your response with evidence and references to the Learning Resources. What were you hoping to achieve by making this decision? Support your response with evidence and references to the Learning Resources. Explain any difference between what you expected to achieve with Decision #1 and the results of the decision. Why were they different?

Pakistani female with delusional thought processes

Decision #1: I would prescribe an antipsychotic medication to the client, such as Risperdal, as it has been shown to be effective in treating positive symptoms of schizophrenia, including delusions and hallucinations (Leucht et al., 2013). I would also educate the client about the importance of taking the medication as prescribed and explain the potential benefits and risks of the medication.

My hope in making this decision is to reduce the client’s positive symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations, and improve her overall functioning. According to the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), the client scored a 40 on the positive symptom scale, indicating the presence of significant positive symptoms. By reducing these symptoms, the client may be able to better engage in her daily activities, including caring for her children and maintaining her relationships.

Decision #2: I would assess the client’s current living situation and explore any potential stressors or triggers that may be contributing to her symptoms, such as cultural conflicts or relationship issues with her husband. I would also explore any potential support systems or resources available to the client, such as family or community resources.

My hope in making this decision is to address any potential psychosocial factors that may be contributing to the client’s symptoms and to provide the client with additional support and resources. By addressing these factors, the client may be better able to manage her symptoms and reduce the likelihood of relapse.

Decision #3: I would explore the client’s concerns about her husband and his potential motives for harming her. I would also assess the client’s safety and explore any potential safety plans or resources available to her, such as a restraining order or a crisis hotline.

My hope in making this decision is to address the client’s concerns and ensure her safety. It is important to consider potential safety concerns, particularly in cases where the client may be experiencing paranoid delusions. By addressing these concerns, the client may feel more secure and be better able to engage in her treatment.

Difference between expected and actual outcomes: It is important to note that the actual outcomes of these decisions may vary based on the client’s individual circumstances and response to treatment. While antipsychotic medications have been shown to be effective in treating positive symptoms of schizophrenia, some patients may experience side effects or may not respond as well to medication (Leucht et al., 2013). Additionally, while exploring potential stressors or triggers and providing additional support and resources may be beneficial for some patients, it may not be effective for others. Finally, while addressing safety concerns is important, it may not necessarily address all of the client’s symptoms or underlying issues. As such, it is important to take a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment.

References: Leucht, S., Cipriani, A., Spineli, L., Mavridis, D., Örey, D., Richter, F., … & Davis, J. M. (2013). Comparative efficacy and tolerability of 15 antipsychotic drugs in schizophrenia: a multiple-treatments meta-analysis. The Lancet, 382(9896), 951-962.