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?

A nurse is caring for a school-age child who has a new diagnosis of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The nurse should anticipate a prescription for which of the following medications? The correct answer is Choice D: Methylphenidate.

Choice A rationale:

Lithium is not a medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is primarily used to manage bipolar disorder.

Choice B rationale:

Valproate is also not a medication typically prescribed for ADHD. It is primarily used for seizure disorders and mood stabilization in conditions like bipolar disorder.

Choice C rationale:

Risperidone is an atypical antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder but is not a first-line treatment for ADHD. It may be considered in cases of severe aggression or agitation associated with ADHD, but it is not the initial choice.

Choice D rationale:

Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant and is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for the treatment of ADHD in children. It helps improve focus and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. It is a first-line treatment for ADHD, making it the most appropriate choice for a child with this diagnosis. .

A nurse is preparing for an interprofessional team meeting regarding a newly admitted client who has major depressive disorder. Which of the following findings obtained during the initial assessment is the priority to report to other disciplines? The correct answer is Choice D: Psychomotor retardation.

Choice A rationale:

Significant weight loss may be a concerning symptom in a client with major depressive disorder, but it is not the top priority. Major depressive disorder can lead to changes in appetite, which may result in weight loss. However, psychomotor retardation, which is a significant slowing of physical and mental activities, is a more critical finding. It can be a sign of severe depression and even potential suicidal ideation. Reporting psychomotor retardation to other disciplines allows for a prompt evaluation of the client's safety.

Choice B rationale:

Markedly neglected hygiene is an important observation and may indicate the client's inability to perform self-care activities. While this should be addressed, psychomotor retardation takes precedence as it can indicate more severe symptoms associated with major depressive disorder.

Choice C rationale:

Poor problem-solving skills are a common cognitive symptom of major depressive disorder, but they are not an immediate priority. Clients with depression often struggle with decision-making and problem-solving, but psychomotor retardation is a more severe and concerning symptom that warrants immediate attention.

Choice D rationale:

Psychomotor retardation is the top priority finding in this scenario. It can be a sign of severe depression and may be associated with an increased risk of self-harm or suicide. Reporting psychomotor retardation allows the interprofessional team to assess the client's safety and initiate appropriate interventions promptly.