A nurse in a community mental health clinic is assessing a client who began taking lithium carbonate 5 days ago. The client reports fine hand tremors and has a current lithium level of 1.2 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Initiates social interactions with caregivers:One of the key goals for adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is to improve social skills and interactions. Encouraging the adolescent to initiate social interactions is a positive and realistic outcome that promotes social development and enhances communication skills.

B. Meets own needs without manipulating others:While fostering independence and self-advocacy is important, adolescents with ASD may struggle with understanding social cues and may not manipulate others in a typical sense. This outcome may not be as relevant or achievable for the individual with ASD.

C. Changes behavior as a result of peer pressure:Adolescents with ASD may have difficulty understanding and responding to peer pressure in the same way as their neurotypical peers. This outcome may not be appropriate or realistic for someone with ASD, as it can lead to increased anxiety or discomfort.

D. Acknowledges that his delusions are not real:This outcome is more relevant to conditions such as schizophrenia or severe psychotic disorders, rather than ASD. Adolescents with autism may experience different cognitive challenges but generally do not have delusions in the way that individuals with psychotic disorders do.

A. Assess the need for physical restraints:
Assessing the need for physical restraints is not the first action to take in this situation. Physical restraints should only be considered as a last resort when there is an immediate threat to the patient or others. It's essential to attempt verbal de-escalation techniques and other non-coercive interventions before considering physical restraints.

B. Discuss the purpose of the medication with the client:
Discussing the purpose of the medication is an important step, as it can help the client understand why they are being asked to take it. However, it may not be the first action to take, especially if the client is highly agitated or manic. Attempting verbal de-escalation techniques, such as calming communication and active listening, should precede discussing the medication's purpose.

C. Stop the newly licensed nurse from administering the medication:
Stopping the newly licensed nurse from administering the medication without addressing the situation directly doesn't resolve the issue. It's important to equip the nurse with appropriate communication skills to handle the situation effectively. Preventing the administration of the medication is not the primary step; it's more about helping the nurse manage the situation appropriately.

D. Demonstrate how to verbally de-escalate the situation:
This is the recommended first action. Demonstrating verbal de-escalation techniques is crucial when dealing with an agitated or manic patient. The nurse manager can model effective communication strategies to help the newly licensed nurse manage the situation without resorting to physical interventions or restraints. Effective verbal de-escalation can lead to a more peaceful resolution and, ideally, the patient's acceptance of the medication without confrontation.