A client is depressed and has attempted suicide tells the nurse, "I should have died because I am totally worthless which of t responses should the nurse make?

A. Lithium has a narrow therapeutic index, meaning the difference between a therapeutic dose and a toxic dose is small. Frequent monitoring allows for early detection of rising lithium levels, preventing toxicity.
B. While monitoring lithium levels is important for overall treatment, it's not primarily used to identify relapse.
C. Lithium primarily affects the kidneys, not the liver. Liver function tests are important for overall health monitoring but are not the primary reason for frequent lithium level checks.
D. While this is a goal, the primary reason for such frequent monitoring is to prevent toxicity, which can occur rapidly.

A. Clarification is a crucial listening skill that involves asking questions or seeking additional information to ensure understanding. Avoiding clarification to prevent interruption can lead to misunderstandings and incomplete communication.
B. While it is important to be attentive and present during communication, taking notes can be necessary to document important information. The key is to balance note-taking with active listening. If done discreetly, note-taking should not significantly detract from the ability to engage in effective listening.
C. Finishing the client’s sentences can be perceived as interruptive and may come across as disrespectful or dismissive. It is important for the client to express their thoughts and feelings fully before the nurse responds.
D. Changing the environment to minimize distractions is a valuable listening skill. A quiet and comfortable setting can enhance effective communication by allowing the client to focus and express themselves without external interruptions. This helps ensure that the nurse can fully concentrate on the client’s message and respond appropriately.