Describe a concise, nurse-focused plan of care for a patient with active psychosis including safety, med management, and discharge planning.

• A. Isolate patient completely and withhold meds
• B. Rely on family to manage care
• C. Ensure safety with close observation and de-escalation; administer antipsychotics as prescribed; monitor vitals and EPS; obtain labs as ordered; on discharge, arrange follow-up, provide education, crisis plan and community resources
• D. Delay med administration until symptoms worsen

Answer: (C)

Managing active psychosis hinges on a plan that keeps the patient safe while starting effective treatment and ensuring a solid transition to follow-up care. Safety comes first: maintain a safe environment, use calm, nonthreatening de-escalation techniques, and apply the least restrictive approach that still protects the patient and staff. In terms of medication management, administer antipsychotics as prescribed, monitor the patient’s response and any adverse effects, and keep a close watch on vital signs and signs of extrapyramidal symptoms. Obtain and review required labs to track metabolic changes and organ function as ordered, since antipsychotics can affect weight, glucose, lipids, liver enzymes, and other systems. For discharge planning, arrange timely follow-up with psychiatry or outpatient mental health services, provide thorough education to the patient and caregivers about medications, expected effects, and warning signs, develop a crisis plan, and connect the patient with community resources and supports to sustain safety and treatment adherence after leaving the hospital.

This approach addresses immediate safety, ensures appropriate pharmacologic management, and fosters continuity of care, which is essential for reducing relapse risk and supporting recovery.