A nurse is reviewing a client’s laboratory results prior to administering the client’s medications. The nurse notes that the client’s lithium level is 2.0 mEq/L.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Transferring the client from the bed to a chair. This is a task that can be delegated to an assistive personnel because it does not require nursing judgment or assessment. The nurse should provide clear instructions and supervise the assistive personnel during the transfer.

Choice B is wrong because checking the client’s surgical dressing for bleeding is a nursing assessment that requires clinical judgment and cannot be delegated.

The nurse should monitor the dressing for signs of infection, drainage, or dehiscence.

Choice C is wrong because determining whether the client has incisional pain is a nursing assessment that requires communication and evaluation skills and cannot be delegated.

The nurse should assess the client’s pain level, location, quality, and duration and administer pain medication as prescribed.

Choice D is wrong because showing the client how to use an incentive spirometer is a nursing intervention that requires teaching and evaluation skills and cannot be delegated.

The nurse should instruct the client on how to use the device to promote lung expansion and prevent atelectasis.

Offer the client fluids high in fiber and protein every hour. This is because clients who have bipolar disorder and are experiencing mania are at risk of dehydration, malnutrition, and weight loss due to increased activity, poor intake, and impaired judgment. Fluids high in fiber and protein can help prevent constipation and promote satiety.

Choice B is wrong because monitoring the client’s vital signs twice per day is not enough for a client who has mania. The nurse should monitor the client’s vital signs more frequently, at least every 4 hours, to assess for signs of dehydration, infection, or cardiac complications.

Choice C is wrong because encouraging the client to participate in group therapy activities each day can increase the client’s stimulation and agitation. The nurse should provide a calming environment with fewer stimuli and solitary activities for a client who has mania.

Choice D is wrong because weighing the client three times per week is not sufficient for a client who has mania. The nurse should weigh the client daily to monitor for weight loss and fluid imbalance.