A nurse is assessing a client who has posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a sexual assault. Which of the following is an expected finding?

The correct answer is choice d. “St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.”

Choice A rationale:

St. John’s wort is commonly used to treat mild to moderate depression. It has been shown to be effective in alleviating symptoms of depression, likely due to its impact on neurotransmitters like serotonin.

Choice B rationale:

There is no evidence to suggest that St. John’s wort can lower prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. PSA levels are typically monitored for prostate health, and St. John’s wort does not have an impact on these levels.

Choice C rationale:

St. John’s wort does not increase estrogen levels in the body. It primarily affects neurotransmitters and has no known effect on hormone levels.

Choice D rationale:

St. John’s wort can indeed reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. It induces certain liver enzymes that can increase the metabolism of contraceptive hormones, thereby reducing their effectiveness and increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy.

Choice A rationale:

Protecting the client from injury is the highest priority nursing action in this scenario. Here's a detailed rationale explaining the importance of this action:

1. Imminent Risk of Harm:

Acute anxiety can significantly impair judgment and impulse control, escalating the risk of self-harm or harm to others. It's crucial to prevent any actions that could result in physical injury, even if unintended.

2. Physiological Manifestations:

Anxiety can trigger physiological responses that heighten the potential for harm, such as: Increased heart rate and blood pressure

Hyperventilation Diaphoresis

Agitation and restlessness Dissociation

These physiological changes can contribute to accidents, falls, or other injuries.

3. Impaired Decision-Making:

Acute anxiety often clouds rational thinking and decision-making abilities.

Individuals may engage in behaviors they wouldn't consider in a calmer state, such as running away, lashing out, or attempting self-harm.

The nurse's role is to safeguard the client from potential consequences of these impulsive actions.

4. Establishing Safety as a Foundation for Care:

Ensuring physical safety creates a necessary foundation for subsequent interventions.

Once safety is established, the nurse can proceed with assessing coping skills, identifying anxiety triggers, and implementing therapeutic strategies.

5. Protecting Others:

In rare cases, acute anxiety can manifest in aggression towards others.

The nurse must protect not only the client but also other individuals who may be at risk.

6. Ethical and Legal Obligations:

Nurses have a professional duty to protect clients from harm, upholding ethical principles and legal standards of care.

7. Preventing Trauma:

Physical injuries sustained during a crisis can exacerbate anxiety and complicate recovery. Proactive safety measures aim to prevent further trauma and promote healing.

I'll provide detailed rationales for the other choices in separate messages to ensure clarity and comprehensiveness.