The nurse is performing an admission assessment for a client on the behavioral health unit with depression and anxiety. Which goal of therapeutic communication will the nurse prioritize?

Choice A reason: Hypocalcemia may occur in AKI due to impaired vitamin D activation, but it is not a primary concern in the diuresis phase, where kidneys produce large urine volumes. Calcium imbalances are less immediate than fluid losses, which can rapidly destabilize hemodynamics during this phase.

Choice B reason: In the diuresis phase of AKI, kidneys regain function, producing excessive urine, which can lead to hypovolemia. Fluid loss depletes intravascular volume, causing hypotension, tachycardia, and organ hypoperfusion. Monitoring is critical to prevent dehydration and ensure adequate fluid replacement to maintain hemodynamic stability during recovery.

Choice C reason: Increased blood pressure is more common in the oliguric phase of AKI due to fluid overload. In the diuresis phase, excessive urine output reduces volume, potentially lowering blood pressure. Hypertension is not a typical complication during this phase, making it an incorrect focus for monitoring.

Choice D reason: Hyperkalemia is a concern in the oliguric phase of AKI due to reduced potassium excretion. In the diuresis phase, increased urine output facilitates potassium clearance, reducing hyperkalemia risk. Hypovolemia from excessive fluid loss is a more immediate concern during this phase of AKI recovery.

Choice A reason: Assault involves threatening harm, not applicable here, as the issue is failure to document assessments, not intentional threats by staff. The client’s self-harm resulted from inadequate monitoring, not a staff-initiated threat, making assault an incorrect legal issue in this scenario.

Choice B reason: Battery involves unauthorized physical contact, not relevant to failure to document assessments. The client’s self-harm stemmed from inadequate observation, not staff-inflicted harm, making battery an inappropriate legal claim compared to negligence in monitoring and documentation.

Choice C reason: Suicide risk is a clinical concern, not a legal issue to defend against. While the client’s self-harm indicates risk, the hospital’s liability arises from failure to follow monitoring protocols, not the risk itself, making this option incorrect for the legal defense context.

Choice D reason: Malpractice involves negligence, such as failing to document hourly assessments for a high-risk client, leading to harm. This breach of standard care (1:1 observation) allowed self-harm, making the hospital liable for not adhering to protocols, requiring defense against malpractice for inadequate monitoring and documentation.