A female client with bulimia is admitted to the mental health unit after she disclosed to a friend that she purges after meals. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?
Provide a supportive, structured environment for meals.
Assess weight, vital signs, potassium, and other electrolytes.
Discuss alternative strategies for binging and purging.
Monitor the client after meals for possible vomiting.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Providing a supportive, structured environment for meals is an important aspect of the overall care plan for individuals with bulimia. However, it should not be the first intervention when a client is admitted with potential physical complications. Addressing the client's physical condition and safety is the initial priority.
Choice B rationale:
This is the correct initial intervention. Bulimia can lead to severe medical complications, including electrolyte imbalances, which can be life-threatening. Assessing the client's weight, vital signs, and electrolyte levels is crucial to determine the severity of physical issues and guide appropriate medical interventions.
Choice C rationale:
Discussing alternative strategies for binging and purging is an important aspect of treatment for bulimia, but it should follow the initial assessment of the client's physical condition. Addressing the client's medical needs takes precedence over discussing alternatives.
Choice D rationale:
While monitoring the client for possible vomiting is important in the care of individuals with bulimia, it should not be the first intervention when the client is admitted. Assessing the client's physical status and addressing potential medical complications should come before monitoring for specific behaviors.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A five-pound weight gain in a client taking lithium carbonate is significant. however, the timeframe of the weightgain is to be known.Choice B rationale:
Nausea and vomiting are known side effects of lithium that should be reported as they can cause electrolyte imbalance.
Choice C rationale:
Short-term memory loss is a potential side effect of lithium, but it may not require immediate reporting unless it significantly affects the client's daily functioning or is associated with other concerning symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
A depressed affect is a symptom that should be addressed as part of the client's ongoing psychiatric care, but it may not warrant immediate reporting unless it is severe and requires a change in the treatment plan. The priority in this case is the potential lithium toxicity indicated by the weight gain.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Clonazepam is not typically associated with a significant risk of causing urinary retention or frequent bathroom needs. There's no immediate need for bathroom assistance related to clonazepam use.
Choice B rationale:
Clonazepam is a medication that affects the central nervous system and can influence mental status. Regular assessment helps monitor for any changes or adverse effects.
Choice C rationale:
Clonazepam is administered orally, and it's important to ensure the client's oral health and comfort, especially since dry mouth can be a side effect.
Choice D rationale:
Clonazepam can cause drowsiness and potential changes in blood pressure, which could lead to orthostatic hypotension. Screening for this condition helps ensure the client's safety when changing positions.
Choice E rationale:
Clonazepam does not typically affect calcium levels. Monitoring calcium levels is not a standard nursing intervention when starting clonazepam.
Choice F rationale:
Clonazepam is not an opioid, and it does not require having an opioid agonist at the bedside. This intervention is not relevant to clonazepam use.
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