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?

Choice A rationale:
Restricting visitors to family members only may not necessarily be a beneficial intervention and could potentially isolate the client further, which may not be in their best interest.

Choice B rationale:
Discussing the client's suicide plan is essential to assess the level of risk and develop strategies to keep the client safe. It allows the healthcare team to understand the severity of the client's depressive symptoms and potential suicidal ideation.

Choice C rationale:
Limiting the time allowed to play video games may be a consideration in a broader plan of care, but it is not a primary intervention for addressing depression in adolescents. The focus should be on safety, communication, and building a therapeutic relationship.

Choice D rationale:
Encouraging the client to discuss thoughts and feelings about wanting to die is crucial for therapeutic communication and assessment. It provides an opportunity for the client to express their emotions and allows for intervention and support.

Choice E rationale:
Reinforcing statements regarding a will to live and realistic plans for the future is important for building hope and motivation in the client. It can be part of a positive, strengths-based approach to treatment.

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.