Choice A rationale
While making a verbal contract not to harm oneself can be a part of suicide prevention strategies, it is not the immediate responsibility in this scenario. The client’s erratic behavior and expressions of despair indicate a high level of distress and potential risk for self-harm.
Choice B rationale
Returning the client to the waiting room with the spouse does not ensure the client’s safety. The spouse may not be equipped to manage the client’s current emotional state, and the busy environment of the waiting room may exacerbate the client’s distress.
Choice C rationale
Documenting that the client is not currently suicidal is not appropriate in this situation. The client’s non-verbal cues (shrugging their shoulders when asked about suicidal thoughts) may indicate ambivalence or uncertainty about their intent to harm themselves.
Choice D rationale
Placing the client in an inside hallway with one-on-one observation is the most appropriate action. This ensures the client’s safety, allows for continuous monitoring of the client’s condition, and provides an opportunity for further assessment and intervention.

Choice A rationale

Supplements can have a significant impact on lab values. For example, taking iron supplements can increase the level of iron in the blood, while taking vitamin D supplements can increase the level of calcium. Therefore, asking the client if they are taking any supplements can provide valuable information that can help interpret the lab results.

Choice B rationale

Dry skin can be a sign of various conditions that can affect lab values. For example, hypothyroidism can cause dry skin and can also cause changes in lab values such as increased TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and decreased T4 (thyroxine)456. Therefore, asking the client if they have noticed that their skin is dry can provide valuable information that can help interpret the lab results.

Choice C rationale

Urgency to urinate can be a sign of various conditions that can affect lab values. For example, a urinary tract infection can cause urgency to urinate and can also cause changes in lab values such as increased white blood cells and bacteria in the urine. Therefore, asking the client if they have experienced urgency to urinate can provide valuable information that can help interpret the lab results.

Choice D rationale

The need to urinate less often can be a sign of various conditions that can affect lab values. For example, dehydration can cause a person to urinate less often and can also cause changes in lab values such as increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. However, this symptom is not as specific or indicative as the others, and may not provide as much valuable information for interpreting the lab results.