A nurse is caring for a client who is seeking treatment for opioid use disorder. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Encourage the client to join group activities:
Encouraging a client experiencing a manic episode to join group activities is not the best option. Manic episodes are characterized by heightened energy, impulsive behavior, and decreased attention span. Group activities may overstimulate the client, making it difficult for them to focus or participate appropriately. It's essential to minimize stimulation and provide a calm environment to help manage the symptoms of mania.

B. Administer methylphenidate to the client:
Methylphenidate is a stimulant commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Administering a stimulant like methylphenidate to a person in a manic state can exacerbate their symptoms. It would increase their already elevated energy levels, restlessness, and impulsivity, making the manic episode more intense and challenging to manage. Using stimulant medications in this context is contraindicated.

C. Dim the lights in the client's room:
Dimming the lights in the client's room is the appropriate choice. Bright lights can increase agitation and restlessness in individuals experiencing a manic episode. Dimming the lights creates a calming environment, reducing excessive stimulation and promoting relaxation. A calm atmosphere is crucial for someone going through a manic episode to help them manage their symptoms effectively.

D. Provide detailed explanations to the client:
During a manic episode, individuals often have racing thoughts and may have difficulty concentrating. Providing detailed explanations can overwhelm the client, as they might have trouble processing complex information in this state. Instead, simple and clear communication is more effective. It's important to provide straightforward instructions and information to prevent further agitation and confusion.

A. Monitor the client's sodium levels:
This action is not directly related to the administration of olanzapine. Olanzapine does not typically affect sodium levels directly. Monitoring sodium levels is essential for some other medications or conditions, but it is not a specific consideration for olanzapine administration.

B. Evaluate the client's frequency of panic attacks:
Evaluating the frequency of panic attacks is not directly related to the administration of olanzapine. Olanzapine is an antipsychotic medication used to treat conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is not primarily indicated for the treatment of panic attacks. Monitoring panic attacks would be relevant if the client's primary concern was panic disorder, but it's not the priority in this scenario.

C. Inform the client that application site rash is common:
This information is not relevant to the administration of olanzapine in the form of an intramuscular injection. Application site rash is a concern for topical medications or transdermal patches, not for IM injections. Therefore, informing the client about application site rash is not necessary in this context.

D. Observe the client for 3 hours following the administration of medication:
This is the correct action. Olanzapine extended-release IM injection requires close observation for at least 3 hours after administration. This monitoring period is essential due to the potential risk of post-injection delirium/sedation syndrome, which can occur shortly after the injection. Monitoring allows for the early detection of any adverse reactions, ensuring the client's safety and well-being.