Planning for relapse prevention is described as the role of which professional?

• A. The nurse.
• B. The social worker.
• C. The pharmacist.
• D. The physician.

Answer: (A)

Relapse prevention planning in schizophrenia is typically led by the nurse, because nurses have ongoing contact with patients, provide essential education about symptoms and medication, monitor adherence and side effects, and coordinate care across settings. This continuous, hands-on involvement enables early recognition of prodromal signs, facilitation of coping strategies, and rapid intervention to prevent full relapse. While social workers, pharmacists, and physicians all play important roles—arranging resources, managing medications, and adjusting treatment—the nurse is best positioned to lead the relapse prevention plan due to the level of day-to-day interaction and crisis-prevention activities required.