A client is becoming increasingly agitated, anxious, and tense.
The nurse notes a clenched jaw and a change in the pitch of the client's voice.
Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement first?

Choice A rationale

Increasing the client's daily caloric intake is not an intervention specifically recommended for clients taking lithium. Lithium therapy requires monitoring of fluid and electrolyte balance, but there is no specific recommendation to increase caloric intake as part of the treatment plan.

Choice B rationale

Administering lithium with meals is recommended to reduce gastrointestinal upset. Lithium can cause stomach irritation, and taking it with food helps minimize this side effect, improving the client's comfort and adherence to the medication regimen.

Choice C rationale

Monitoring for hypoglycemia is not a standard intervention for clients taking lithium. Lithium primarily affects fluid and electrolyte balance, particularly sodium levels, but it is not associated with causing hypoglycemia. Monitoring for lithium toxicity and maintaining appropriate hydration are more critical aspects of care.

Choice D rationale

Decreasing dietary potassium is not required for clients taking lithium. Lithium does not affect potassium levels significantly, and there is no need to modify potassium intake. The focus should be on maintaining adequate hydration and monitoring lithium levels to avoid toxicity.

Choice A rationale

Making a unit calendar helps with orientation but doesn't specifically engage reminiscence therapy, which focuses on recalling past experiences.

Choice B rationale

Discussing childhood memories fosters reminiscence, aiding in cognitive stimulation and emotional connection among older adults.

Choice C rationale

Thought-stopping techniques are more suited for managing negative thoughts in disorders like anxiety or depression, not for reminiscence therapy.

Choice D rationale

Playing board games enhances cognition but doesn't specifically target reminiscence, which involves sharing and discussing past experiences.