A nurse is reviewing laboratory findings for three clients.
Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse expect for a client who has cirrhosis?

Choice A rationale:

Referring the client to a nutritionist is not the most appropriate action in this situation. While nutritionists can provide valuable information on infant feeding, the client's primary concern is the inability to afford baby formula. A case manager is better suited to address the client's financial and social needs.

Choice B rationale:

Referring the client to the primary care provider is not the most appropriate action in this situation. The primary care provider may not have the resources or expertise to address the client's financial and social concerns.

Choice C rationale:

Referring the client to a pediatric nurse practitioner is not the most appropriate action in this situation. While pediatric nurse practitioners can provide healthcare for infants, they may not have the resources to address the client's financial constraints.

Choice D rationale:

Referring the client to a case manager is the most appropriate action in this scenario. A case manager can assess the client's financial situation and connect them with appropriate resources, such as government assistance programs or local charities, to help cover the cost of baby formula. Case managers specialize in coordinating care and addressing social determinants of health.

Choice A rationale:

Asking, "What would your family do without you?" can be seen as judgmental and may not encourage open communication. It doesn't directly address the client's statement about feeling like a burden or wanting to be gone.

Choice B rationale:

Saying, "When you get better you will not feel this way," minimizes the client's feelings and can be invalidating. It does not show empathy or concern for the client's current emotional state.

Choice C rationale:

Asking, "Why would you think a thing like that?" can come across as judgmental and may make the client defensive. It does not directly address the client's emotional distress or suicidal ideation.

Choice D rationale:

This is the correct answer. "Are you thinking of hurting yourself?" is a direct and appropriate question to assess the client's risk of self-harm or suicide. It demonstrates concern for the client's well-being and opens the door for a more in-depth conversation about their feelings and thoughts. Assessing for suicidal ideation is a crucial step in providing appropriate care for a client with depressive disorder.