A new mother on the postpartum unit runs out of the room screaming that her newborn infant's crib is empty and the baby is missing.

Which action should the nurse take first?

Choice A rationale:

Review the client's serum calcium level. Rationale: Checking the client's serum calcium level is not the most appropriate action in this situation. Hand and finger spasms during blood pressure measurement are more likely due to discomfort or muscle tension than a calcium deficiency. There is no immediate indication that the client's calcium level needs to be assessed urgently.

Choice B rationale:

Administer an as-needed (PRN) antianxiety medication. Rationale: Administering an antianxiety medication is not indicated in this situation. The client's symptoms of hand and finger spasms during blood pressure measurement are not likely related to anxiety. It is essential to address the immediate issue of obtaining an accurate blood pressure reading.

Choice C rationale:

Ask the UAP to take the blood pressure in the other arm. Rationale: This is the correct answer. When the UAP reports spasms in the client's right hand and fingers while taking blood pressure using the same arm, the nurse should prioritize obtaining an accurate blood pressure measurement. Asking the UAP to use the other arm can help ensure a more reliable reading. Muscle spasms in the arm being used for blood pressure measurement can lead to inaccurate results.

Choice D rationale:

Tell the UAP to use a different sphygmomanometer. Rationale: In this scenario, the issue appears to be related to muscle spasms in the client's hand and fingers rather than the sphygmomanometer itself. Changing the sphygmomanometer is unlikely to resolve the problem. The priority is to obtain an accurate blood pressure reading by addressing the spasms in the arm being used.

Choice B rationale:

Observing for extrapyramidal symptoms, such as dystonia, is the most important intervention immediately after seclusion because haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication known to have the potential for causing extrapyramidal side effects. Identifying and managing these side effects promptly is crucial to ensure the client's safety.

Choice A rationale:

Releasing the client as soon as composure is regained may not be safe if the client is still at risk of harming themselves or others. Monitoring for the resolution of symptoms and stabilization is important before releasing the client.

Choice C rationale:

Securing the room with padded walls and minimal furnishings is not the immediate priority. While seclusion rooms should be safe and comfortable, observing for potential side effects takes precedence.

Choice D rationale:

Providing one-on-one observation at all times is a resource-intensive intervention and may not be necessary for all clients. Observing for extrapyramidal symptoms is more targeted and appropriate in this scenario.