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:

Observing for signs of depression is the most important intervention for the nurse to include in the client's plan of care. This patient has a history of struggling with weight management, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension, and is now approved for gastroplasty. Weight management surgery can have significant psychological implications, and patients may experience depression or other emotional issues. Identifying signs of depression and providing appropriate support and resources is crucial for the client's overall well-being and successful outcomes.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring for urinary incontinence is not the top priority in this case. While it's important to assess and address urinary incontinence when necessary, it is not the most critical concern for a client undergoing gastroplasty. Depression and post-surgical complications related to weight management surgery take precedence.

Choice C rationale:

Providing a wide variety of meal choices is not the most important intervention at this stage. After gastroplasty, dietary choices are typically restricted, and the focus is on a controlled and healthy diet. The priority is addressing the psychological and emotional aspects of the client's care, as well as monitoring for surgical complications.

Choice D rationale:

Applying sequential compression stockings is not the most crucial intervention in this situation. While prophylaxis against deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is important, it is not the top priority compared to addressing potential depression and emotional well-being in a client who has struggled with weight management for years.

Choice A rationale:

Fresh or frozen vegetables without sauce. Rationale: Fresh or frozen vegetables without sauce are excellent choices for a client with hypertension. These foods are low in sodium and can help manage blood pressure effectively. The absence of added sauces ensures that there is no hidden sodium content.

Choice B rationale:

Fruits without sauce. Rationale: Fruits without sauce are also suitable for clients with hypertension. They are naturally low in sodium and provide essential nutrients that can support blood pressure control. The absence of sauce ensures that no additional sodium is added.

Choice C rationale:

Pickled olives. Rationale: Pickled olives are high in sodium due to the pickling process. Therefore, they are not recommended for clients with hypertension as they can lead to an increase in blood pressure.

Choice D rationale:

Canned soup. Rationale: Canned soup often contains high levels of sodium, which is not suitable for clients with hypertension. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to elevated blood pressure and should be avoided.

Choice E rationale:

Cottage cheese. Rationale: Cottage cheese is generally considered acceptable for clients with hypertension, especially if it is the low-sodium or reduced-sodium variety. However, it is not as strongly recommended as fresh or frozen vegetables and fruits without sauce.