A nurse is providing change-of-shift report to another nurse for a client using the Introduction, Situation, Background, Assessment and Recommendation (ISBARR) communication tool. Which of the following information should the nurse include as part of the situation component of this communication tool?

Explanation:

A. Avoid touching the client:

While it's essential to be gentle and respectful when touching an unresponsive client, avoiding all touch may not be appropriate. Touch can be a comforting and reassuring gesture, and many clients at the end of life benefit from gentle touch, such as holding their hand or providing a gentle massage.

B. Continue to talk to the client as if they are awake:

Talking to the client, even if they are unresponsive, is encouraged. Hearing is often the last sense to diminish, and talking to the client in a soothing and reassuring manner can provide comfort and a sense of presence. The nurse should speak calmly and compassionately, addressing the client by name and providing updates on care activities.

C. Limit the client's visitors to one at a time:

Limiting the number of visitors and controlling the environment can help maintain a calm and peaceful atmosphere for the client. However, the specific number of visitors allowed at a time may vary based on the client's preferences, cultural considerations, and facility policies. It's important to respect the client's wishes regarding visitors while ensuring their comfort and well-being.

D. Whisper when talking in the client's room:

Whispering may not be necessary unless the client is particularly sensitive to loud noises. Speaking in a calm and gentle tone is generally more appropriate, as it allows the client to hear clearly without causing unnecessary strain or confusion.

Explanation:

A. Administer the Hamilton depression scale:

The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale is a tool used to assess the severity of depression symptoms in individuals. While assessing the client's depression level is an important aspect of mental health assessment, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. The client has been admitted following a suicide attempt, indicating an acute risk to their safety. Therefore, the priority at this stage is to ensure the client's safety and prevent any further harm or attempts at self-harm.

B. Make a contract with the client for weight gain:

Making a contract with the client for weight gain, especially in the context of anorexia nervosa, may be an important aspect of the client's overall treatment plan. However, in this scenario, the client's immediate safety takes precedence. The client has a history of depression, substance abuse, and anorexia nervosa, and the primary concern at admission is to prevent any further self-harm or suicide attempts.

C. Review the client's toxicology laboratory report:

Reviewing the client's toxicology laboratory report is important for understanding any recent substance abuse and its potential impact on the client's physical and mental health. However, while this information is relevant to the client's overall care, it is not the first action to take upon admission. The immediate priority is to ensure the client's safety and provide appropriate monitoring and intervention to prevent further harm.

D. Initiate one-to-one nursing observation:

This is the correct answer. Initiating one-to-one nursing observation means assigning a dedicated nurse to continuously monitor and supervise the client closely. This level of observation is crucial in a situation where there is a history of suicide attempt and ongoing risk of self-harm. One-to-one observation allows for immediate intervention if the client shows signs of distress or attempts to harm themselves, ensuring their safety while they are in the acute mental health unit.