A nurse is assisting with the admission of a client to an acute mental health unit following a suicide attempt. The client has a history of depression, substance abuse, and anorexia nervosa. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Initiate one-to-one nursing observation.
Make a contract with the client for weight gain.
Administer the Hamilton depression scale.
Review the client's toxicology laboratory report.
The Correct Answer is A
initiate one-to-one nursing observation, as this is the most urgent intervention to ensure the safety of the client. The client has a history of depression, substance abuse, anorexia nervosa, and attempted suicide, which indicates that they are at high risk for harm to themselves. One-to-one observation involves an assigned staff member who will be with the client at all times, ensuring their safety and preventing any further self-harm attempts.
Choice B, making a contract with the client for weight gain, is not an appropriate first action as it does not address the client's immediate safety concerns.
Choice C, administering the Hamilton depression scale, may be important to assess the client's depressive symptoms but is not the most urgent priority.
Choice D, reviewing the client's toxicology laboratory report, may be necessary for the overall assessment of the client, but safety comes first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Altered level of consciousness (LOC). Increased ICP can cause decreased LOC or changes in mental status, including confusion, agitation, or coma.
Options A, amnesia, and B, tachycardia, are not necessarily indicative of increased ICP, while option D, hypotension, is actually a sign of decreased ICP. Monitoring for elevated ICP is critical in patients with traumatic brain injury, and early recognition and intervention can be lifesaving. The nurse should report any changes in the patient's level of consciousness or other neurological symptoms to the provider immediately.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should acknowledge and validate the client's feelings by saying, "It's okay to feel afraid. Let's talk about what you are afraid of." This response demonstrates empathy and encourages the client to express their concerns and feelings.
Choice B, "Your doctor is a great surgeon. You will be fine," dismisses the client's feelings and may increase their anxiety.
Choice C, "Don't worry. The important thing is you have now quit smoking," minimizes the seriousness of the procedure and the client's potential risks.
Choice D, "I understand your fears. I was a smoker also," shifts the focus from the client to the nurse and is not an effective way to provide emotional support for the client.
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