Kendrick is a 25-year-old man hospitalized with a paranoid delusional disorder. When Kendrick was admitted, he was very angry and vehemently verbalized that he believed his ex-mother- in-law had been spreading lies about him around town and she was responsible for getting him fired from his last job. When Kendrick’s sister visited him at the hospital, he gave consent for Registered Nurse Ashley, his nurse, and his psychiatrist to talk with her about his condition. At that time, his sister stated Kendrick’s ideas about his ex-mother-in-law are delusional thinking and there is no basis in fact regarding his beliefs. Kendrick’s condition has improved with adjustments of his psychotropic drugs (he is no longer actively exhibiting angry and paranoid behavior), and he is being discharged today. When Ashley is talking with Kendrick today in preparation for his discharge, he tells her “I’m still not finished with my ex-mother-in-law.” Ashley asks him to explain this statement, and he is evasive but answers with cryptic statements indicating threats against the woman.
Questions
Review the chapter content.
1. Do you believe Kendrick should be discharged today? Explain the basis for your decision.
2. What are the appropriate steps for Ashley to take after leaving Kendrick’s room?
3. Discuss ethics-related principles, precedents, and concepts relevant to this case.
