A nurse in an outpatient mental health clinic is caring for a client. Select the 3 findings that require immediate follow-up.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should ensure that the side rails are up on the client's bed. This action is essential for the safety of the client with severe preeclampsia, as it prevents accidental falls or injuries. Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, and it poses significant risks to both the mother and the fetus. By keeping the side rails up, the nurse can minimize the risk of falls and ensure the client's safety while in bed.

Choice B rationale:

Ambulating the client every 4 hours is not appropriate for a pregnant woman with severe preeclampsia. Preeclampsia can cause high blood pressure, swelling, and proteinuria. It is a serious condition that requires close monitoring and strict bed rest to prevent complications such as seizures or eclampsia. Ambulation may increase the risk of falls and is contraindicated in this situation.

Choice C rationale:

Checking the fetal heart rate twice daily is important in the care of a pregnant client with severe preeclampsia. However, ensuring the client's safety by keeping the side rails up on the bed takes priority. While monitoring the fetal heart rate is crucial for assessing the baby's well-being, it does not address the immediate safety concerns of the client, which can be addressed by maintaining the side rails up.

Choice D rationale:

Providing the client with a low-protein diet is not the correct action for a pregnant woman with severe preeclampsia. In fact, pregnant women with preeclampsia are often advised to increase their protein intake to help manage their condition. A low-protein diet can lead to malnutrition and may not provide the necessary nutrients for both the mother and the developing fetus. The primary focus should be on bed rest, monitoring vital signs, and managing symptoms to prevent complications.

Choice A rationale:

Hyperthyroidism is not a contraindication for niacin use. Niacin is used to lower LDL cholesterol levels and has no specific contraindications related to thyroid disorders.

Choice B rationale:

Asthma is not a contraindication for niacin use. Niacin does not interact with asthma medications or worsen asthma symptoms, so it is not contraindicated in individuals with asthma.

Choice C rationale:

High blood pressure is not a contraindication for niacin use. In fact, niacin can help lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health. It is often prescribed to individuals with high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels.

Choice D rationale:

Active liver disease is a contraindication for niacin use. Niacin can cause liver damage, and individuals with active liver disease should avoid niacin therapy to prevent further harm to the liver. Monitoring liver function tests is crucial in patients taking niacin to ensure their liver health.