The nurse assesses the client after the dose of albuterol and documents the findings in the chart.

Exhibits

Which action(s) should the nurse plan for the rest of the shift? Select all that apply.

A. Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine used primarily for anxiety disorders and can affect mental status, including cognition and level of alertness. Regular assessment helps monitor for any changes in mental status, such as drowsiness, confusion, or sedation, which are potential side effects of clonazepam.
B. This intervention helps maintain oral hygiene, which is important when a client is taking medications orally. Benzodiazepines like clonazepam can cause dry mouth as a side effect, which can contribute to oral hygiene issues such as increased risk of dental caries or oral infections.
C. Clonazepam itself does not directly affect calcium levels. Monitoring calcium levels is not a routine nursing intervention specifically related to clonazepam administration. This option is not appropriate in this context.
D. Clonazepam is not an opioid and does not directly interact with opioids in a way that would necessitate having an opioid agonist at the bedside. This option is not relevant for a client starting clonazepam.
E. Clonazepam can cause dizziness and impair coordination, especially when starting the medication or with dose changes. Assisting the client to the bathroom helps prevent falls and ensures safety, particularly if the client experiences dizziness or sedation.
F. Benzodiazepines like clonazepam can cause hypotension (low blood pressure), which may exacerbate upon standing (orthostatic hypotension). Screening involves checking blood pressure and heart rate in different positions (lying, sitting, standing) to detect orthostatic changes. This is important to prevent falls and other complications.

A. Phototherapy involves exposure to specific wavelengths of light to help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders. It can be particularly beneficial in a hospital setting where natural light exposure may be limited, potentially aiding in mood stabilization and improving sleep patterns.
B. Lithium is a mood stabilizer commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. While the client's symptoms and presentation do not immediately suggest bipolar disorder, lithium could be considered if there are indications of mood instability or severe emotional dysregulation that are not adequately controlled by other medications.
C. Consciousness raising refers to increasing awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. In the context of therapy, it can help the client process traumatic experiences, gain insight into their reactions, and develop coping strategies. This approach can be integrated into various forms of psychotherapy.
D. CBT is a structured form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and modifying dysfunctional thought patterns and behaviors. It has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other trauma-related disorders by helping individuals challenge negative thoughts and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
E. ECT involves passing electrical currents through the brain to intentionally trigger a brief seizure. It is primarily used for severe depression or other mental illnesses that have not responded to other treatments. Given the client's presentation and the availability of less invasive treatments, ECT would generally not be considered unless her condition worsens significantly and other therapies are ineffective or contraindicated.
F. Animal therapy involves interacting with animals, such as therapy dogs or horses, to improve mood, reduce stress, and provide emotional support. This type of therapy can be beneficial for individuals experiencing trauma or emotional distress, offering comfort and companionship.