A nurse is providing teaching about the use of crutches using a three-point gait to a client who has a tibia fracture. Which of the following actions by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. Smoking marijuana to clear their mind
Using marijuana to cope with emotional pain or trauma is concerning. It suggests that the client may be turning to substances to manage their stress, anxiety, or trauma-related symptoms, which could lead to substance use disorder. It is important to address the substance use as it may hinder the healing process, especially given the trauma the client has experienced.
B. BP 122/80 mm Hg
This blood pressure reading is within the normal range for a 16-year-old. A blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg or lower is generally considered normal for adolescents, so there is no immediate need for follow-up regarding this finding. This vital sign does not indicate an urgent issue.
C. Witnessing their family's death
Witnessing the violent deaths of close family members is a major traumatic event that can lead to post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complicated grief, or other mental health issues. This experience is significant and requires immediate follow-up to assess how the client is processing the trauma and to ensure they are receiving appropriate mental health support, such as therapy or counseling.
D. Attends school regularly
While it's important to monitor the client’s social and academic functioning, attending school regularly is a positive indicator. The client is able to continue their education despite their trauma, which is a sign of resilience. However, this finding does not require immediate follow-up, but ongoing assessment may be needed to evaluate if there are any underlying issues affecting their school performance or social interactions.
E. Client experiences nightmares
Nightmares, particularly those related to a traumatic event, are a common symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Since the client witnessed the traumatic deaths of their family members, this could be part of a larger pattern of distress. Follow-up is needed to evaluate the severity of the nightmares and determine whether the client needs trauma-focused therapy or other interventions to address potential PTSD symptoms.
F. Startles easily during thunderstorms
This is a common symptom of hypervigilance, which is associated with PTSD or acute stress disorder (ASD) following trauma. The client’s startle response, particularly in response to thunderstorms (which could be a trigger), warrants immediate follow-up. The nurse should assess the client's emotional response to stimuli and provide guidance on managing triggers, as well as explore whether the client needs therapy or trauma-informed care.
G. Heart rate 99/min
A heart rate of 99 beats per minute is within the normal range for adolescents and is not concerning on its own. While anxiety or stress could cause a mild increase in heart rate, this finding does not require immediate intervention unless there are other signs of distress, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing.
H. Caregiver reporting client acting differently than usual
A change in behavior, as reported by the caregiver, is concerning. It may indicate that the client is struggling emotionally or mentally, particularly after experiencing such a traumatic loss. This behavior could be linked to depression, anxiety, or trauma-related symptoms, and therefore requires immediate follow-up to assess the client's mental health and ensure that they are receiving appropriate support.

The client is at risk for developing serotonin syndrome due to adverse effects of paroxetine.

Rationale

Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is an excess of serotonin in the central nervous system, often as a result of taking certain medications, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like paroxetine.

Adverse effects of paroxetine:

The client was recently switched from fluoxetine (another SSRI) to paroxetine, and has had their dose increased from 10 mg to 30 mg. This may lead to an increase in serotonin levels, which, if excessive, could trigger serotonin syndrome. The client’s current symptoms, including restlessness, abdominal pain, disorientation, and fever, are indicative of potential serotonin syndrome, which is often accompanied by agitation, hyperreflexia, tremors, and autonomic dysregulation (e.g., fever, tachycardia, hypertension).