A nurse on an inpatient mental health unit is caring for a client diagnosed with major depressive disorder and malnutrition. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to improve the client's nutritional status?
Enroll the client in a nutritional class on the unit.
Weigh the client at the same time every morning.
Ask the provider to arrange a consultation with the facility chaplain.
Sit with the client during meals and snacks.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
Enrolling the client in a nutritional class can be beneficial for long-term nutritional education, but it may not have an immediate impact on the client's current state of malnutrition and may not be feasible if the client is experiencing severe symptoms of depression.
Choice B reason:
Weighing the client at the same time every morning is a good practice for monitoring the client's weight, but it does not directly contribute to improving the client's nutritional status. It is more of a measurement and monitoring action rather than an intervention.
Choice C reason:
Arranging a consultation with the facility chaplain might address spiritual needs, which can be an important aspect of holistic care, but it does not directly improve nutritional status and is not the most immediate concern for a client with malnutrition.
Choice D reason:
Sitting with the client during meals and snacks can encourage food intake and provide an opportunity for the nurse to offer support and encouragement. This direct intervention can help improve the client's nutritional intake, which is essential for addressing malnutrition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: "I can't call a doctor in the middle of the night unless it's an emergency."
This response may seem reasonable, but it could escalate the situation if the client feels their concerns are not being taken seriously. It's important to validate the client's feelings and find a solution that respects both their needs and the realities of the situation.
Choice B: "You must be very upset about something."
This response validates the client's feelings and opens up a dialogue. It shows empathy and understanding, which can help de-escalate the situation.
Choice C: "Go back to your room, and I'll try to get in touch with your doctor."
This response acknowledges the client's request and provides a clear action plan. However, it's important to follow through on this promise to maintain trust.
Choice D: "You are being unreasonable, and I will not call your doctor at this hour."
This response is confrontational and likely to escalate the situation. It's important to remain calm and professional, even when dealing with difficult behavior.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Administering activated charcoal can be a treatment option in some overdose cases, particularly when the substance ingested is known to be adsorbed by charcoal. However, its effectiveness varies depending on the substance and the timing of administration post-ingestion. In the case of a stimulant overdose, activated charcoal is not the first-line treatment, especially when the specific stimulant and time of ingestion are unknown.
Choice B Reason:
Obtaining a urine sample for drug testing is important for confirming the type of stimulant ingested and can guide further treatment. However, this is not the immediate priority in an acute overdose situation where the patient's life may be at risk.
Choice C Reason:
Initiating seizure precautions is important in the management of stimulant overdose due to the risk of seizures¹. However, this is a precautionary measure and not the first action to take. The initial focus should be on assessing and stabilizing the patient's vital functions.
Choice D Reason:
Monitoring vital signs is the most critical initial step in managing a suspected stimulant overdose. Stimulants can cause severe hypertension, tachycardia, hyperthermia, and arrhythmias. Frequent monitoring allows for the early detection of life-threatening conditions and the initiation of appropriate interventions to stabilize the patient's condition.
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