A nurse is preparing to administer a medication and is unfamiliar with the medication. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Rationale:

A. A client who has narcissistic personality disorder and refuses to be alone in their room: Clients with narcissistic personality disorder typically display a need for admiration and may fear abandonment, but they are not at increased risk for physical injury.

B. A client who has social anxiety disorder and refuses to attend group therapy: Avoidance of social settings is a hallmark of social anxiety disorder. While it may lead to isolation, it does not place the client at increased risk for physical injury.

C. A client who has bipolar disorder and exhibits impulsive behaviour: Impulsivity during manic episodes in bipolar disorder can lead to high-risk activities such as reckless driving, substance use, or unsafe sexual behavior. These behaviors significantly elevate the client’s risk for accidental or intentional physical injury.

D. A client who has panic disorder and exhibits paresthesia: Paresthesia, such as tingling or numbness, is a common symptom during panic attacks but does not directly increase the risk for physical injury. While distressing, it typically resolves and is not associated with unsafe behaviors.

Rationale:

A. Contact security personnel to place the money in the designated secure location: Hospitals have protocols for handling client valuables. The safest and most appropriate action is to notify security so the funds can be securely stored, documented, and returned appropriately. This maintains accountability and protects both the client and staff.

B. Label the money with the client's name and leave it at the nurses' station: Leaving valuables at the nurses' station, even if labeled, poses a risk for loss or theft. It does not meet institutional standards for safeguarding client property and may violate facility policies.

C. Place the money in an envelope in the client's medication drawer: Medication drawers are intended for storing prescribed medications only. Using them for valuables is inappropriate, insecure, and may lead to misplacement or confusion during care transitions.

D. Hold the money for the client until their return from surgery: Personally holding the client’s money is a liability and not an accepted protocol. It lacks formal documentation and security, increasing the risk of loss or accusation of theft.