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?

An 18-year-old client with a mild mental disability is a client who has a lower than average intellectual functioning and some limitations in adaptive skills, such as communication, socialization, and self-care. A mild mental disability may affect the client's ability to understand, cope, or cooperate with medical interventions, such as ambulation after surgery.

Ambulation is the act of walking or moving around. It is an important part of postoperative care, as it helps to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, atelectasis, constipation, and pressure ulcers. Ambulation also promotes circulation, wound healing, and muscle strength.

When the practical nurse (PN) atempts to assist the client to ambulate on the first postoperative day after an appendectomy, the client becomes angry and says, "PN, 'Get out of here! I'll get up when I'm ready!" This may indicate that the client is experiencing pain, fear, anxiety, or frustration due to the surgery and the recovery process .

The best response for the PN to make is to acknowledge the client's feelings, provide reassurance and support, and set a clear and realistic goal for ambulation. This will help to establish rapport, reduce resistance, and motivate the client to participate in the care plan.

Therefore, option D is the correct answer, as it shows empathy and respect for the client's feelings, while also informing the client of the expectation and time frame for ambulation. Option D also allows the client some time to prepare mentally and physically for the activity.

Choice A rationale:

Provide a safe and calm environment for the client during a panic attack. Creating a safe and calm environment is crucial during a panic attack. It can help the client feel more secure and reduce the intensity and duration of the panic attack.

Choice B rationale:

Use therapeutic communication skills to establish rapport and trust with the client. Therapeutic communication is essential for clients with panic disorder. It helps establish a trusting relationship between the nurse and the client, which is crucial for effective treatment and support.

Choice C rationale:

Educate the client about panic disorder and its treatment options. Educating the client about their condition and available treatment options empowers them to make informed decisions about their care. It also reduces anxiety and fear associated with the disorder.

Choice D rationale:

Encourage the client to participate in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a well-established and effective treatment for panic disorder. Encouraging the client to participate in CBT can help them develop coping strategies and manage their symptoms.

Choice E rationale:

Refer the client to self-help groups for peer support and education. Self-help groups can provide valuable peer support and education to individuals with panic disorder. Being part of such a group can reduce feelings of isolation and provide practical advice for managing the condition.