A nurse on an inpatient mental health unit is caring for a client diagnosed with major depressive disorder and malnutrition. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to improve the client's nutritional status?

Choice A reason:
Cirrhosis is a severe scarring of the liver and poor liver function seen at the terminal stages of chronic liver disease. It is one of the primary long-term effects of alcohol use disorder, as the liver is the main organ responsible for metabolizing alcohol. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to inflammation, liver cell death, and eventually cirrhosis, which significantly impairs the liver's ability to function properly.

Choice B reason:
Heightened awareness is not typically a long-term physiological effect of alcohol use disorder. In fact, chronic alcohol use is more likely to dull cognitive functions and reduce awareness due to its depressive effects on the central nervous system.

Choice C reason:
Gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining, is another potential long-term effect of alcohol use disorder. Alcohol can irritate and erode the gastric mucosa, leading to gastritis, which may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Choice D reason:
Brain damage is a serious long-term effect of alcohol use disorder. Alcohol can cause changes in the brain, leading to problems with cognition, memory, and motor skills. Chronic exposure to alcohol can result in brain shrinkage and the development of conditions like Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.

Choice E reason:
Esophageal varices are enlarged veins in the esophagus that can occur as a result of portal hypertension, often due to cirrhosis of the liver caused by alcohol use disorder. They are a significant risk because they can rupture and lead to life-threatening bleeding.

Choice A reason:
Escorting the client to the common area is not the priority action during a panic attack. The common area may have too much stimulation and could potentially worsen the client's anxiety. It is important to provide a quiet and safe environment for the client during a panic attack.

Choice B reason:
Contacting security for possible restraints is not the priority action and should only be considered if the client is a danger to themselves or others. Restraints can increase the client's anxiety and agitation, and the goal is to de-escalate the situation in a non-threatening manner.

Choice C reason:
Staying with the client is the priority action. The presence of a nurse can provide reassurance and a sense of safety. The nurse should use a calm and soothing voice, maintain a non-threatening posture, and stay with the client until the panic attack subsides. Offering support and using relaxation techniques can help the client regain control.

Choice D reason:
Staying away from the client is not the priority action. Isolation can increase the client's fear and anxiety. The nurse should remain with the client, offering reassurance and monitoring the client's condition throughout the panic attack.