A nurse on a pediatric unit is caring for a toddler who has poor dietary intake. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

A. Discontinue this medication if this occurs again. Stopping a newly prescribed medication without consulting a provider is not recommended. Many medications, including antihypertensives, can cause lightheadedness, and adjustments or precautions should be discussed with a healthcare provider rather than discontinuing the drug independently.
B. Sit back down for a few minutes when this occurs. Lightheadedness upon standing is often due to orthostatic hypotension, which can be managed by sitting back down to allow blood pressure to stabilize. Slowly changing positions, staying hydrated, and rising gradually can also help minimize symptoms.
C. Restrict your daily fluid intake. Reducing fluid intake can worsen symptoms of orthostatic hypotension by decreasing blood volume, leading to further drops in blood pressure. Instead, maintaining adequate hydration is essential to support circulatory stability and prevent dizziness.
D. Take a daily potassium supplement. Unless there is a confirmed potassium deficiency, supplementation is unnecessary and could lead to hyperkalemia, especially if the client is on medications affecting potassium levels. Lightheadedness is more commonly related to blood pressure changes rather than potassium imbalances.

A. Recommend the client spend time alone in his room. Social isolation can worsen depressive symptoms by increasing feelings of loneliness and hopelessness. Clients with major depressive disorder benefit from structured activities and social engagement, which help improve mood and prevent withdrawal.
B. Offer the client low-protein snacks throughout the day. Clients with depression may experience changes in appetite and energy levels, but protein is essential for neurotransmitter function and overall health. Instead of low-protein snacks, balanced meals with adequate nutrients should be encouraged to support physical and mental well-being.
C. Encourage the client to use positive self-talk. Negative thought patterns contribute to depressive symptoms, and cognitive-behavioral strategies such as positive self-talk help clients challenge and replace negative beliefs. Encouraging the client to engage in self-affirming statements can improve self-esteem and foster a more positive outlook.
D. Suggest the client exercise before going to bed. While exercise is beneficial for mood regulation and depression management, engaging in physical activity right before bedtime can lead to increased alertness, potentially disrupting sleep. Exercise is best scheduled earlier in the day to maximize its mood-enhancing and sleep-promoting effects.