A nurse in a clinic is planning care for a child who has ADHD and is taking atomoxetine.
Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor?

Choice A rationale:

Iron is essential for healthy blood, but it is not specifically associated with preventing neural tube defects. Iron supplementation is crucial during pregnancy to prevent iron-deficiency anemia.

Choice B rationale:

Calcium is essential for bone health, but it is not directly related to preventing neural tube defects. Adequate calcium intake is vital, especially during adolescence and pregnancy, to support bone development and maintenance.

Choice C rationale:

"Folate." This is the correct answer. Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is crucial for preventing neural tube defects. Adequate folate intake, especially before and during early pregnancy, can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects in newborns. The normal recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for folate is 400 micrograms per day for adults.

Choice D rationale:

Zinc is a mineral important for immune function and wound healing but is not specifically associated with preventing neural tube defects. Adequate zinc intake is essential for overall health, but it is not a primary nutrient targeted for neural tube defect prevention.

Explanation: MRSA is a type of bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics and can cause serious infections in various parts of the body. The nurse should wear a gown when assisting the client with personal hygiene to prevent contact transmission of MRSA to other clients or staff members. The nurse should also wear gloves and a mask and perform hand hygiene before and after contact with the client or their environment. The nurse should remove personal protective equipment before leaving the client's room and dispose of it properly to avoid contamination of other areas or surfaces. Negative air pressure is not required for MRSA isolation because it is not an airborne infection. The client's visitors should not be restricted, but they should be educated on the proper use of personal protective equipment and hand hygiene when visiting the client.