A nurse is caring for a client who has just received a terminal cancer diagnosis from his provider.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring signs of psychomotor agitation is an important aspect of assessing a patient with bipolar disorder. Psychomotor agitation is a common feature of bipolar disorder, and recognizing its signs can help in managing the patient's condition effectively.

Choice B rationale:

Assessing the patient's memory and attention is crucial in the assessment of bipolar disorder. It helps in evaluating cognitive function, which can be affected during manic or depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.

Choice C rationale:

Documenting the patient's medication history is essential when assessing a patient with bipolar disorder. Knowing the medications the patient is currently taking, as well as their medication history, is vital for understanding their treatment plan and ensuring the safe and effective management of the condition.

Choice D rationale:

Measuring vital signs and laboratory tests is an integral part of the physical assessment for a patient with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder can have physical health implications, and monitoring vital signs and conducting laboratory tests can help identify any underlying medical issues or side effects of medication.

Choice E rationale:

Observing signs of impaired judgment is another important aspect of assessing a patient with bipolar disorder. Impaired judgment can be a characteristic feature during manic episodes, and recognizing it is crucial for the safety and well-being of the patient.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should not offer advice about various treatment choices to the client who has just received a terminal cancer diagnosis. At this point, the client should be provided with information about available treatment options by the healthcare provider. The nurse's role is to offer support, empathy, and help facilitate communication between the client and the provider. Offering advice about treatment choices is beyond the scope of the nurse's role in this situation.

Choice B rationale:

Discouraging the client from forming new relationships is not appropriate. The client's emotional and psychosocial needs are important, and it's essential to encourage meaningful connections and relationships, especially in a difficult time like receiving a terminal diagnosis. Isolation can have negative effects on the client's emotional well-being, so the nurse should support the client in maintaining relationships.

Choice D rationale:

Changing the subject when the client becomes upset is not an appropriate action. It's important for the nurse to provide emotional support and a listening ear to the client during this challenging time. Changing the subject may come across as dismissive or uncaring, and it does not address the client's emotional needs.