Schizophrenia is a mental illness that affects the way a person thinks, perceives information, responds emotionally, and behaves. There are different types of schizophrenia that produce their own set of clinical manifestations. Show Schizophrenia symptoms can be divided into positive or negative categories: Positive symptoms are in addition to reality and include symptoms of psychosis such as hallucinations or delusions. Negative symptoms are a lack or loss of abilities. This includes a lack of motivation, loss of interest or enjoyment, poor hygiene practices, and difficulty concentrating. There are several proposed etiological causes of schizophrenia. Research has shown that there is a genetic connection as relatives of schizophrenic patients have a 5 to 10% risk of developing the disorder themselves. Viruses or other birth defects in utero as well as anatomical abnormalities of the brain are predisposing factors. Lastly, environmental factors such as poor socioeconomic conditions, abuse, or neglect can negatively affect mental health. The Nursing ProcessNurses will often navigate comorbidities of mental illness along with physical conditions when caring for patients. Patients being treated specifically for schizophrenia will require inpatient treatment in a behavioral health unit. Behavioral/mental health nursing requires a unique set of skills to properly communicate and interact with unstable patients while maintaining safety. Nursing Care Plans Related to SchizophreniaImpaired Social Interaction Care PlanPatients with schizophrenia may display a lack of social skills and struggle with navigating social constructs, roles, and cues. Nursing Diagnosis: Impaired Social Interaction Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcomes:
Impaired Social Interaction Assessment1. Assess their perceptions and feelings toward social interaction. 2. Determine family and support patterns. 3. Observe speech, nonverbal gestures, and body language. Impaired Social Interaction Interventions1. Develop a trusting relationship. 2.
Provide positive reinforcement. 3. Encourage group activities. 4.
Refer to specialists for social skills training. Disturbed Sensory Perception (Auditory/Visual) Care PlanPsychosis from schizophrenia may result in a disconnection from reality with symptoms of delusions and hallucinations. Nursing Diagnosis: Disturbed Sensory Perception (Auditory/Visual) Related to:
As evidenced by:
Expected Outcome:
Disturbed Sensory Perception Assessment1. Assess medication adherence. 2. Assess contents of hallucinations. 3. Monitor for increasing agitation or anxiety. Disturbed Sensory Perception Interventions1. Remove the
client from chaotic environments. 2. Provide safety. 3. Aid
distraction. 4. Help the patient recognize triggers. Risk For Self/Other-Directed ViolenceSchizophrenia can cause feelings of suspiciousness and a perception of threats where none exist. In a psychotic state, patients may have delusions or hear voices that tell them to behave in ways that are unsafe to themselves and others. Related to:
Note: A risk diagnosis is not evidenced by signs and symptoms as the problem has not occurred yet and the goal of nursing interventions is aimed at prevention. Expected Outcomes:
Risk For Self/Other-Directed Violence Assessment1. Assess for a plan for suicide or violence. 2. Observe
for early cues of distress. Risk For Self/Other-Directed Violence Interventions1. Maintain and convey a calm attitude. 2. Maintain distance from the patient. 3. Keep the patient safe. 4. Administer tranquilizers. 5. Apply restraints. References and Sources
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