A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has genital herpes.
Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

The correct answer is: c. A client who exhibits an increase in energy.

Choice A reason: A client with psychomotor retardation may experience a visible slowing of physical and emotional reactions. This symptom is associated with major depressive disorder and can manifest as slowed speech, decreased movement, and impaired cognitive function. While psychomotor retardation is a significant symptom of depression, it is not typically identified as the highest risk factor for suicide when compared to other symptoms such as a sudden increase in energy, which can indicate a potential for acting on suicidal thoughts.

Choice B reason: An inability to concentrate is another symptom that can be present in individuals with major depressive disorder. It refers to difficulty in focusing, making decisions, or remembering things. Although this can contribute to the overall severity of depression, it is not directly linked to an increased risk of suicide as strongly as some other symptoms like changes in sleep patterns or behavior.

Choice C reason: An increase in energy in a client with major depressive disorder, especially if it occurs suddenly, can be a warning sign of potential suicidal behavior. This change can indicate that the individual has decided about suicide and may now have the energy to act on these thoughts. It is important for healthcare providers to closely monitor such changes in energy levels, as they can be indicative of an increased risk for suicide.

Choice D reason: Persistent insomnia is a common symptom in individuals with major depressive disorder and can exacerbate other symptoms of depression. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, cognitive impairment, and can affect overall health. While it is a concerning symptom and can affect a person’s risk for suicide, it is not considered the single highest risk factor when compared to a sudden increase in energy.

Choice A rationale:

Positioning the client supine with legs elevated is not an appropriate intervention for a client with ascites due to cirrhosis. It may help with other conditions, but in ascites, it can increase pressure on the abdomen and worsen fluid accumulation.

Choice C rationale:

Restricting the client's sodium intake to 3g per day is a valid intervention for a client with ascites due to cirrhosis. However, measuring the abdominal girth daily is a more immediate and actionable intervention to monitor the progression of ascites and adjust treatment accordingly.

Choice D rationale:

Keeping the client's daily protein intake below 0.8 g/kg is not the standard practice for managing ascites in cirrhosis. In fact, adequate protein intake is important to prevent malnutrition in these clients, so protein restriction is not recommended unless specifically indicated by a healthcare provider.