Mental Health Technician Certification (AMCA) Practice Test

If an adult female client displays behavior interpreted as anger towards another client, what is the appropriate action for the nurse?

1. Ignore the behavior

2. Reprimand the client

3. Talk with the client about observations made

4. Report the behavior to a supervisor

The correct answer is: Talk with the client about observations made

When a nurse observes a client exhibiting behavior that may be interpreted as anger towards another client, engaging in a conversation with the client about the observations is the appropriate action. This approach is grounded in therapeutic communication principles, which emphasize understanding the client’s feelings and helping them process their emotions. Talking with the client encourages openness and provides an opportunity for the nurse to assess the client's feelings, thoughts, and possible triggers for the behavior. This not only facilitates a deeper understanding of the client’s emotional state but also fosters a supportive environment, allowing the nurse to guide the client towards recognizing and managing their feelings of anger in a healthier manner. Open dialogue can help de-escalate any tension and also reinforce the therapeutic relationship, making the client feel heard and understood. While other actions, such as ignoring the behavior or reprimanding the client, could lead to further misunderstandings or escalation of the situation, they do not address the underlying issues. Reporting the behavior to a supervisor may be necessary in some contexts, but the initial step should typically be direct communication with the client to address their emotional and behavioral concerns effectively. This approach aligns with best practices in mental health care, focusing on working collaboratively with clients to facilitate their emotional growth and stability.