A nurse is collecting a history from a client who has depression. Which of the following statements by the client should the nurse identify as a protective factor against suicide?

A. Aspartate aminotransferase 20 units/L:
This result indicates the level of an enzyme in the blood. A value of 20 units/L is within the normal range (usually 10-40 units/L). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found in the liver, heart, muscles, and other tissues. Elevated levels might indicate liver damage, but 20 units/L is a normal value.

B. Platelets 250,000/mm3:
Platelets are components of blood that help with clotting. A value of 250,000/mm3 is within the normal range (normal range is typically 150,000 to 450,000/mm3). Normal platelet levels are crucial for preventing excessive bleeding or clotting.

C. Sodium 140 mEq/L:
Sodium is an electrolyte essential for maintaining the body's water balance and nerve function. A level of 140 mEq/L falls within the normal range (typically 135-145 mEq/L). Proper sodium levels are important for overall body functioning.

D. Fasting glucose 175 mg/dL:
This indicates the concentration of glucose (sugar) in the blood after a period of fasting. A level of 175 mg/dL is elevated. Fasting glucose levels above 125 mg/dL may suggest diabetes or prediabetes. Elevated glucose levels are a cause for concern as they indicate poor blood sugar regulation, which can lead to various health complications, including diabetes.

A. Liraglutide 0.6 mg subcutaneously daily:
Liraglutide is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. It works by regulating blood sugar levels and reducing appetite. It has no direct relevance to the treatment of schizophrenia or psychosis. Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder, and antipsychotic medications are typically used to manage its symptoms.

B. Selegiline 6 mg transdermal patch daily:
Selegiline is primarily used to treat Parkinson's disease by enhancing the effects of dopamine in the brain. It is not indicated for schizophrenia or psychosis. While dopamine dysregulation is involved in both Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia, the mechanisms and treatments are different. Antipsychotic medications, not selegiline, are used to manage psychosis in schizophrenia.

C. Aripiprazole 400 mg IM every 4 weeks:
This is the correct choice. Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication commonly used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. The intramuscular (IM) formulation provides extended release, making it suitable for clients who may have difficulty adhering to daily oral medications. It helps manage psychosis, a common symptom of schizophrenia.

D. Lithium 600 mg PO three times per day:
Lithium is a mood stabilizer commonly used to treat bipolar disorder by preventing or reducing the intensity of manic episodes. It is not a first-line treatment for schizophrenia or psychosis. Antipsychotic medications are the primary choice for managing the symptoms of psychosis in schizophrenia. Lithium is not typically used to address the hallucinations and delusions associated with schizophrenia.