The main objectives of treatment when an individual with schizophrenia is experiencing an acute psychotic episode are prevention of harm, controlling troubled behavior, and decreasing the severity of psychosis (American Psychiatric Association, 2010). In addition, the occupational therapist should be aware of the related symptoms displayed such as agitation, aggression, negative symptoms, and affective symptoms (American Psychiatric Association, 2010). Discovering the specific factor that led to the incidence of the acute psychotic episode in order to increase the likelihood of the client returning to the best level of functioning is also considered (American Psychiatric Association, 2010).
Persons with schizophrenia are at an increased risk for suicide. It is imperative to monitor the client for the potential of suicidal tendencies, suicidal intent, suicidal ideation, history of suicide attempts, and command hallucinations (American
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Precautions are needed to address the probability of dangerous or hostile behavior and if the client will harm another person or participate in different forms of violence. While the client is in the acute phase of psychosis, the health care practitioner should moderate any overstimulating or stressful interactions, environments, or life events (American Psychiatric Association, 2010). Establishing a relaxing and comfortable environment by providing clear, concise, coherent communications and expectations will aid the client in decreasing any negative behavior. In addition creating a predictable environment in which low performance of the client is required while providing accepting and supportive relationships from the occupational therapist and other healthcare practitioners will also help to improve the symptoms during the psychotic episode (American Psychiatric Association,