A nurse in an acute mental health facility receives change-of-shift report on a group of clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse assess first?
A client who has borderline personality disorder and exhibits splitting behaviors
A client who has schizophrenia and reports command hallucinations
A client who recently started taking lithium and has a fine hand tremor
A client who takes nicotine and states they have a dry mouth
The Correct Answer is B
A. A client who has borderline personality disorder and exhibits splitting behaviors
While splitting behaviors can be concerning and may require intervention, they do not typically pose an immediate threat to the client's safety or well-being compared to other urgent issues such as hallucinations or medication side effects.
B. A client who has schizophrenia and reports command hallucinations
Command hallucinations can be dangerous as they may prompt the client to engage in harmful behaviors or actions directed by the hallucinations. Therefore, this client should be assessed first to ensure their safety and intervene if necessary.
C. A client who recently started taking lithium and has a fine hand tremor
A fine hand tremor is a common side effect of lithium therapy and typically does not require immediate attention unless it becomes severe or interferes significantly with the client's functioning. Therefore, this client's assessment can be prioritized lower than the client experiencing command hallucinations.
D. A client who takes nicotine and states they have a dry mouth
While a dry mouth can be uncomfortable, it is not typically a critical issue requiring immediate assessment compared to the safety concerns associated with command hallucinations in a client with schizophrenia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The client has a serotonin deficiency
This choice suggests a biological risk factor for major depressive disorder (MDD). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation, and alterations in its levels or function can contribute to the development of depressive symptoms. A deficiency in serotonin is considered a significant biological risk factor for MDD.
B. The client has acute bronchitis
Acute bronchitis, an inflammation of the bronchial tubes typically caused by viral infections, is not directly associated with major depressive disorder. While physical health issues can impact mental health and exacerbate depressive symptoms, acute bronchitis is not a recognized risk factor for MDD.
C. The client has an elevated calcium level
Elevated calcium levels are not typically considered a risk factor for major depressive disorder. While imbalances in electrolytes like calcium can have physiological effects on the body, they are not directly linked to the development of depression.
D. The client is an only child
Being an only child is a demographic characteristic and is not considered a direct risk factor for major depressive disorder. While family dynamics and relationships can influence mental health, being an only child alone is not causally related to the development of depression.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Keep the client hospitalized until there is no longer a threat
Nurses do not have the authority to unilaterally detain clients in a hospital. This decision is typically made by a physician or a legal authority, especially in the context of a medical-surgical unit where mental health professionals may need to be involved.Keeping a client hospitalized without proper legal procedures and mental health evaluation could lead to legal repercussions for unlawful detainment.
B. Ensure the client's ex-partner is notified of the threat
This option involves notifying the potential victim about the threat made by the client. While it's important to ensure the safety of others, the nurse's legal duty primarily lies with protecting the confidentiality of the client's information. Without consent from the client or a legal obligation, such as mandatory reporting laws for imminent harm, the nurse cannot disclose the threat to the ex-partner.
C. Ask a friend or family member to monitor the client
While involving family or friends might provide support, it is not a sufficient or appropriate response to a threat of harm. It does not address the immediate risk posed to the ex-partner and may not comply with legal obligations.
D. Transfer the client to a mental health facility
Transferring the client to a mental health facility for further evaluation and treatment might be necessary, but it must be done through appropriate medical and legal channels. It addresses the need for a thorough mental health assessment and ensures that the client receives the necessary care.
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