A nurse is assessing a client who has a history of alcohol use disorder. Which of the following questions should the nurse include to deter the use of alcohol affects the client's psychosocial behaviors?

In this scenario, a priority action for the nurse is to ask the client if she has considered harming her newborn. The client's symptoms of feeling "down," sadness, lack of energy, and wanting to cry raise concerns about the possibility of postpartum depression, which is a serious mental health condition that can affect new mothers. In some cases, postpartum depression can lead to thoughts of harming oneself or the newborn. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to assess the client's risk and ensure the safety of both the client and her baby.

Incorrect:

A- Reinforce postpartum and newborn care discharge teaching: While reinforcing postpartum and newborn care discharge teaching is an important aspect of care, it is not the priority in this situation. The client's symptoms of feeling "down," sadness, lack of energy, and wanting to cry suggest the possibility of postpartum depression. The nurse should prioritize addressing the client's emotional well-being and assessing for potential risks, rather than focusing on routine postpartum and newborn care teaching.

B- Anticipate a prescription by the provider for an antidepressant: While medication may be part of the treatment plan for postpartum depression, it is not the priority action at this stage. The nurse should first assess the client's condition, including the severity of her symptoms and any potential risk of harm to herself or her newborn. Initiating a discussion about medication can come later, in collaboration with the healthcare provider and based on a comprehensive assessment.

C- Assist the family to identify prior use of positive coping skills in family crises: While supporting the client's family and identifying positive coping skills are important, they are not the priority in this scenario. The immediate concern is addressing the client's symptoms and assessing for potential risks associated with postpartum depression. Once the client's immediate safety and emotional needs are addressed, the nurse can involve the family in the care plan and help them identify and utilize positive coping strategies.

A. While choice A, “I haven’t gotten my period yet, and all my friends have theirs,” is a valid concern for a 13-year-old, it is generally a normal part of development. Menarche can occur anywhere between ages 9 and 16, so it’s not uncommon for some girls to start later than their peers. However, it is important to address this concern and provide reassurance.

B- "My parents treat me like a baby sometimes." This comment suggests a possible issue with parent-child dynamics, but it does not indicate an immediate health concern. The nurse may explore this further during a counseling session or refer the adolescent to a school counselor if necessary.

C- "There's a big pimple on my face, and I worry that everyone will notice it." While acne can impact an adolescent's self-esteem, it is not a priority issue from a health perspective. The nurse can provide support, discuss basic skincare practices, and offer guidance on managing acne if appropriate.

D. "None of the kids at this school like me, and I don't like them either." This comment indicates potential issues with social relationships, isolation, and possible mental health concerns, which should be prioritized for further evaluation and support. The client might be at risk for depression, an eating disorder or self-harm.