A nurse on a mental health unit is caring for a client.

Nurses' Notes

Day 1, 1300:

Client admitted following a suicide attempt. Client's family reports client has not left bedroom in 1 week. Client previously. diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Client reports feeling excessively tired and light-headed. Allergies: Client's family reports allergy to SSRIS (angioedema) and penicillin (anaphylaxis).

1600:

Client has been sleeping in their room since admission. Flat affect noted.

For each potential provider's prescription, click to specify if the potential prescription is anticipated or contraindicated for the client.

Choice A reason

Empowering the client to feel in charge of his life is essential for promoting coping and a sense of control over the situation. However, it may not be the first priority when the client's safety is in question.

Choice B reason:

Finding the client, a temporary shelter where he can feel safe is important for meeting the client's immediate physical needs, but it can be addressed after ensuring his emotional well-being and safety.

Choice C reason

The client's partner has died in a traumatic event, and the loss of both a loved one and their home can be emotionally overwhelming and distressing. The nurse's first priority should be to assess the client's safety and well-being, especially considering the potential for thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Assessing for thoughts of self-harm is critical because the client may be experiencing intense grief, guilt, or hopelessness, which can increase the risk of self-harm or suicidal ideation. Identifying these thoughts early allows the nurse to initiate appropriate interventions, provide emotional support, and involve mental health professionals if necessary.

Choice D reason

Reviewing the client's available social support system is significant for addressing the client's emotional needs and establishing a support network. However, ensuring the client's safety takes precedence over this action.

A. Incorrect. The client does not have respiratory alkalosis because respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a low PaCO2 (less than 35 mm Hg) and a high pH (greater than 7.45).

B. Incorrect. The client does not have metabolic alkalosis because metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high HCO3 (greater than 26 mEq/L) and a high pH (greater than 7.45).

C. Correct. The client has respiratory acidosis because respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high PaCO2 (greater than 45 mm Hg) and a low pH (less than 7.35).

D. Incorrect. The client does not have metabolic acidosis because metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low HCO3 (less than 22 mEq/L) and a low pH (less than 7.35).