• Provide opportunities for the patient and family to practice self-management skills
–Allow sufficient time and a safe, supportive environment for the patient and family members to practice techniques and
receive feedback
- For inpatients, participation in the milieu can provide valuable opportunities to practice appropriate social and
self-management skills
–Practice communication that allows the patient to become gradually integrated into his/her social surroundings
- Ask “what if” questions to assist the patient and family with problem solving, including the following:
- What if you forget to take your pills?
- What if the patient is frustrated that he/she is gaining weight?
- What if the patient’s behaviors are continually disruptive and negatively impact family function?
- What if the patient is harmful to himself/herself or others?