Working with people experiencing hallucinations

Abstract

The above is a description of one event from two different perspectives. The first is how the nurse attempts to communicate with a client who appears to be preoccupied about something. The second description attempts to convey the experience from a client who is being distracted by hallucinations. It can be seen that two completely different worlds can exist, and in such a situation a bridge must be formed between them to allow effective communication to take place. To do this, an appreciation of how a hallucinatory experience can affect an individual is needed.

Thomas was sitting in the corner of the ward staring at the floor. Occasionally he would lift his head, look to the side and smile. The nurse approached and sat down beside him.

Nurse: ‘Hello, Thomas.’

There was no response. It was as if the nurse did not exist.

Nurse: ‘Hello, Thomas, how are you?’

Slowly Thomas turned and stared. It was as though he could see right through the nurse. He suddenly opened his mouth wide, took a deep breath and groaned as if expressing some agonizing pain.

‘This place I am in is warm and dark. I can see the depths of colour moving around my feet. The mist is all around, everyone seems to be moving slowly. Someone is laughing up there, it is very funny.’

‘Stop looking up there, Thomas, listen to me. Don’t listen to him, Thomas, he’s only out to hurt you. Who’s this coming to laugh at you?’

Nurse: ‘Hello, Thomas.’

‘Open your mouth and swallow his pain. Let out the hatred from your bowels.’

Nurse: ‘Hello, Thomas, how are you?’