Description/Focus: Four short-essay questions
Due Date: 1359 hours (CST) Monday, 11th September 2017
Value: 40%
Length: 1600 words (i.e. 4 short essays of 400 words each)
Instructions
Using the following clinical scenario provide a 400-word short essay-style response to each of the four questions using correctly structured paragraphs and correct referencing. Use each question as a heading. Support your responses with evidence.
Place your reference list on a separate page at the end of your submission.
Four short essay questions
Discuss the key interpersonal skills you will use to engage with Andrew. (400 words)
The doctor stated that Andrew has symptoms of a psychosis. Using correct clinical terms and the clinical cues in the scenario, discuss three important signs and symptoms that support the doctor’s opinion. (400 words)
Andrew asks you why he has a prescription for medication. Briefly discuss how you would respond. (400 words)
The GP has requested Andrew is informed and carefully monitored over the next few weeks. Briefly discuss your plan. (400 words)
Clinical Scenario
In this scenario you are a new graduate nurse working as part of a small multidisciplinary team in a large metropolitan 24-hour medical clinic.
Andrew was referred to the clinic by the local university counseling service. He is a 21-year old university student studying Law. In the referral the Counsellor expresses concern about a noticeable change in his general behaviour and a significant drop in his academic performance during this semester. At the GP’s request, you sit in on the appointment interview.
During the interview Andrew relates a number of loosely connected and implausible stories about different people in the university being ASIO spies. He also refers to technology such as a “transmitter chip” that has been inserted into his brain to monitor his thoughts. He goes on to describe other evidence of a conspiracy against him such as different electrical items being moved around in his apartment, and the “lights” outside his unit being “operated” to interfere with his thoughts. He also claims that other students have been discussing his activities with the lecturer to make sure he gets into trouble.
Throughout the interview Andrew maintains a consistent flat monotone voice and sits calmly in his chair.
While observing and listening to his story, you also notice that he frequently looks around or past you as if looking for something. When you ask, he describes that he can hear “them” talking about him. There is no-one else in the room. He states that he can clearly hear other people talking about him. He is completely convinced they are real people but doesn’t know who “they” are.
The GP conducts a basic health check and concludes by informing Andrew that he is experiencing symptoms of a psychosis. The GP provides a script for risperidone 1 mg nocte.
Before Andrew leaves the GP expresses concern that careful monitoring is needed for the next few weeks. The GP asks that you set up the next appointment and ensure Andrew has access to information and support before he leaves the clinic.
Marking Criteria
Utilisation of evidence for clinical practice
Understanding of clinical concepts
Application of clinical reasoning skills
Application of academic literacy skills
Demonstrates academic integrity
The Marking Rubric may be downloaded from here (Rubric – S217.pdf)
linked item What is evidence-based practice?
This link takes you to a series of short podcasts that review the concepts of evidence-based nursing and clinical reasoning.
