A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who had a stroke and is having difficulty swallowing. The nurse should recommend a referral to which of the following members of the interprofessional team?

Rationale:

A. Ask the client to describe the incident: The first step is to gather detailed and accurate information about what happened. This not only allows the nurse to assess the severity and risk of harm but also builds trust with the client. Understanding the specifics of the situation is essential before planning further interventions.

B. Assist the client with developing a safety plan: While crucial for long-term well-being, safety planning should come after assessing the current situation. The nurse must first understand the context of the incident to tailor the plan effectively and ensure it aligns with the client’s readiness and safety.

C. Provide the client with information about local shelters: Offering shelter information is supportive and may be part of discharge or follow-up teaching. However, this should follow the initial assessment, as the client may not yet be ready to consider leaving or may have specific needs not met by general resources.

D. Refer the client to a support group: Support groups are helpful for emotional healing and connection but are not an immediate priority. Without understanding the client’s current circumstances, risk level, and readiness to engage, such a referral may not be appropriate at this stage.

A.Provide the caregiver with information on behavior therapy: Behavior therapy is a first-line, evidence-based nonpharmacologic intervention for ADHD, particularly in children. Educating caregivers about behavioral strategies helps improve symptom management and supports long-term success.
B. Screen the child for depression prior to initiating the medication: Although screening for comorbid conditions like depression is important in ADHD management, it is typically part of the initial diagnostic workup, which was already completed with neurology and developmental evaluations.
C. Monitor liver function test results while the child is taking the medication: Atomoxetine carries a risk of rare but serious liver toxicity. Regular monitoring of liver function is essential during treatment, especially if the child shows signs of liver dysfunction (e.g., dark urine, abdominal pain, jaundice).
D. Monitor the child for nightmares while taking the medication: Sleep disturbances, including insomnia and nightmares, are known side effects of atomoxetine. Nurses should monitor and educate caregivers about possible changes in sleep behavior while the child is on this medication.
E.Monitor the child's blood pressure at each visit: Atomoxetine can cause increases in blood pressure and heart rate. Routine monitoring of vital signs at follow-up visits is necessary to ensure cardiovascular safety during treatment.