Which nursing action would be considered a priority when caring for a paranoid schizophrenic client?

• A. encourage the client to self-disclose to staff during therapy
• B. isolate the client from others until stabilized
• C. provide the client with pre packaged foods that the client likes
• D. administer antipsychotic medications as prescribed without monitoring

Answer: (C)

Focusing on basic needs and creating a calm, predictable environment is essential when caring for someone with paranoid schizophrenia. Providing pre-packaged foods the client likes supports reliable nutrition and reduces potential stress or suspicion surrounding meals. When the client experiences paranoia, feeling in control over small aspects of daily life can help decrease agitation and build trust with staff, which is a stepping-stone to further therapeutic work. In contrast, isolating the client can heighten paranoia and violate autonomy, encouraging self-disclosure during therapy goes deeper into treatment yet isn’t the immediate priority for safety and stability, and giving antipsychotic meds without monitoring risks serious side effects and unsafe care.