A nurse is caring for a client who has major depressive disorder. After discussing the treatment with his partner, the client verbally agrees to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) but will not sign the consent form. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Initiates social interactions with caregivers:One of the key goals for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is to improve social skills and interactions. Encouraging the adolescent to initiate social interactions is a positive and realistic outcome that promotes social development and enhances communication skills.

B. Meets own needs without manipulating others:While fostering independence and self-advocacy is important, adolescents with ASD may struggle with understanding social cues and may not manipulate others in a typical sense. This outcome may not be as relevant or achievable for the individual with ASD.

C. Changes behavior as a result of peer pressure:Adolescents with ASD may have difficulty understanding and responding to peer pressure in the same way as their neurotypical peers. This outcome may not be appropriate or realistic for someone with ASD, as it can lead to increased anxiety or discomfort.

D. Acknowledges that his delusions are not real:This outcome is more relevant to conditions such as schizophrenia or severe psychotic disorders, rather than ASD. Adolescents with autism may experience different cognitive challenges but generally do not have delusions in the way that individuals with psychotic disorders do.

A. Withholding a prescribed medication that is causing adverse effects for the client
The principle of nonmaleficence, often summarized as "do no harm," emphasizes the nurse's duty to prevent harm and to remove existing harm. If a medication prescribed to a client is causing adverse effects, the nurse should withhold the medication to prevent harm to the client.

B. Educating the client about legal rights concerning treatment
Educating the client about their legal rights falls under providing information and ensuring the client's autonomy but does not directly address the principle of non-maleficence.

C. Providing the client with quality care regardless of ability to pay for treatment
Providing quality care regardless of the client's ability to pay is an ethical practice, but it aligns more with the principles of justice and beneficence rather than nonmaleficence.

D. Being truthful with the client about the manifestations of withdrawal
Being truthful and providing accurate information to the client about withdrawal symptoms is crucial, but it doesn't directly address the principle of nonmaleficence.