A nurse notices a disparity in mental health care referrals between white clients and clients of color. What should be the nurse's priority action?

Choice A reason: Scaffolding provides structured, temporary support that helps patients gradually acquire skills. The nurse assists until the patient gains independence, fostering empowerment and self-efficacy.

Choice B reason: Creating permanent dependency contradicts the purpose of scaffolding. The goal is independence, not reliance.

Choice C reason: Ensuring complete reliance on staff undermines patient autonomy and prevents skill development. Scaffolding emphasizes gradual withdrawal of support.

Choice D reason: Isolation from stressors may provide temporary relief but does not build coping skills. Scaffolding involves guided exposure and support, not avoidance

Choice A reason: One tablet equals 300 mg, which is insufficient to meet the prescribed 450 mg dose. Administering only one tablet would underdose the patient, reducing therapeutic effectiveness.

Choice B reason: Three tablets equal 900 mg, which is double the prescribed dose. This would cause toxicity and serious adverse effects, making it unsafe.

Choice C reason: Two tablets equal 600 mg, which exceeds the prescribed dose by 150 mg. This would risk lithium toxicity, including tremors, confusion, and renal impairment.

Choice D reason: 1.5 tablets equal exactly 450 mg, which matches the prescribed dose. This ensures therapeutic effectiveness while maintaining safety.

Step 1: Available tablet strength = 300 mg.

Step 2: Ordered dose = 450 mg.

Step 3: (450 mg ÷ 300 mg) = 1.5 tablets.

Result = 1.5 tablets.