A nurse is caring for a client who reports acute, moderate anxiety. Which of the following is the priority nursing action?

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.

Informed consent is an essential ethical principle in healthcare, including mental health treatment. Even if the client has previously signed a consent form for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), they have the right to change their mind and refuse the treatment at anytime. Respecting the client's autonomy and their right to make decisions about their own healthcare is crucial.

The nurse's response should support the client's right to refuse the treatment, rather than attempting to persuade or convince them otherwise. It is important to provide information, answer questions, and discuss the client's concerns or reasons for refusing the treatment. The client's decision should be respected and further discussions can be held with the healthcare provider to explore alternative treatment options or address any concerns the client may have.

A- "You have given signed consent for the treatments after they were explained to you." - This response does not acknowledge the client's right to refuse the treatment. Even if the client previously provided consent, they still have the right to change their mind and refuse the treatment. Informed consent is an ongoing process, and the client's autonomy should be respected throughout their care.

B- "You can refuse them, but the provider believes they are necessary." - While it may be true that the healthcare provider believes ECT is necessary, this response does not fully acknowledge the client's autonomy. It is important to emphasize the client's right to make decisions about their own healthcare, independent of the provider's opinion. The decision to refuse or accept the treatment should ultimately be made by the client.

C- "You will feel better after the course of treatments." - This response does not address the client's concerns or their right to refuse the treatment. It is essential to respect the client's autonomy and their ability to make decisions about their own care, even if their decision may not align with the potential benefits of the treatment. The nurse should focus on providing information, addressing the client's concerns, and supporting their decision-making process.