A nurse on an inpatient eating disorders unit is caring for a client who has anorexia nervosa and has a body mass index of 17.2. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply.).

Answer: c. Document the client's verbatim statements.

Here's why the other options are wrong:

• a. Ask the client for permission to take photographs:While photographs may be collected as evidence later, it should not be the first priority. The priority is to focus on patient care and emotional well-being.
• b. Provide community sexual assault support contacts:Offering support resources is important, but documenting the details of the assault is crucial for forensic and legal purposes, and should come first.
• d. Determine any physical signs of injury:Looking for physical injuries is important, but documenting the client's account should come first. This ensures the client's narrative is captured accurately and can be referred to later.

Documenting the client's verbatim statements is the most important initial action because:

• It preserves the client's account of the assault in their own words.
• It allows for accurate reporting and investigation.
• It can be used as evidence in legal proceedings.

Here are some supporting points:

• The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN):"Law enforcement will need to take a detailed statement about the assault, and a medical professional will likely perform a physical exam. Be prepared to answer questions about what happened." [1]
• The National Sexual Assault Hotline:"Law enforcement will want to get a statement from you as soon as possible after the assault. Try to remember the details of the assault as clearly as you can." [2]

In conclusion, while all the other options are important aspects of caring for a sexual assault survivor, documenting the client's verbatim statements is the most critical initial action for a nurse to take in the emergency department setting.

Choice A rationale:

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur as a severe adverse effect of antipsychotic medications, such as risperidone (Risperdal). Symptoms of NMS include flu-like symptoms (fever, muscle rigidity, and sweating) along with altered mental status, and autonomic dysregulation. It's crucial for the nurse to recognize this potentially fatal condition promptly and intervene appropriately.

Choice B rationale:

Tardive dyskinesia is a movement disorder that is often a result of long-term use of antipsychotic medications, but it is characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements of the face and other body parts. It doesn't typically present with flu-like symptoms or low blood pressure.

Choice C rationale:

Acute dystonia is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms, often involving the muscles of the face, neck, and back. It usually occurs shortly after starting antipsychotic treatment. While it can cause discomfort, it doesn't present with flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure as described in the scenario.

Choice D rationale:

Pseudoparkinsonism, also known as drug-induced parkinsonism, is characterized by symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and rigidity. It doesn't typically cause flu-like symptoms and low blood pressure.