A young adult client with a recent diagnosis of bipolar disorder takes lithium carbonate daily. The client informed the school nurse of the desire to live away from home to attend college after graduating in one month. Which information is most important for the nurse to provide the client and his family?

Choice A rationale:
While completing a thorough room search to remove potential self-harming objects is important, it should follow the immediate need for monitoring and intervention.

Choice B rationale:
Providing time alone in the client's room may not be appropriate when the client is exhibiting signs of distress and increased risk.

Choice C rationale:
Closely monitoring the client and having staff intervene as needed (Choice C) is the most important intervention in this situation. Clients with a history of self-mutilation who display signs of increased tension and agitation may be at higher risk for engaging in self-harming behaviors. Close observation and intervention can help prevent self-harm and ensure the client's safety.

Choice D rationale:
Giving firm, consistent expectations is important in the overall care plan but may not be effective in acute situations where immediate monitoring and intervention are required.

Choice A rationale:
This is included because the client has a history of cardiovascular issues (hypertension, coronary artery disease), and the symptoms presented (fatigue, muscle cramps, tingling sensation, lightheadedness) could be related to cardiac concerns. Monitoring cardiac status helps assess for any cardiac-related issues.

Choice B rationale:
This is essential because the client's recent illness and missed dialysis sessions may have contributed to her symptoms. Ensuring the client understands the importance of compliance with hemodialysis is crucial for her overall well-being.

Choice C rationale:
Monitoring vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate, is a fundamental aspect of assessing the client's current condition and response to treatment.

Choice D rationale:
A comprehensive head-to-toe assessment helps identify any physical signs or symptoms that may be contributing to the client's complaints and guides further evaluation and interventions.

Choice E rationale:
Given the client's history of cardiovascular disease and the complaints of chest discomfort, monitoring the heart rhythm is essential to assess for any arrhythmias or irregularities.

Choice F rationale:
Monitoring fluid intake and output is crucial, especially in clients with end-stage renal disease, as imbalances in fluid and electrolytes can exacerbate symptoms and lead to complications.

Choice G rationale:
The client's complaints of muscle cramps and tingling sensations in the arms and legs indicate potential neuromuscular involvement. Monitoring neuromuscular status helps assess these symptoms.

Choice H rationale:
There is no indication in the provided information that an immediate transfer to a telemetry unit is necessary. The client's vital signs, including heart rate and oxygen saturation, are stable at the moment. Further assessment and interventions can be carried out on the current unit before considering a transfer.

Choice I rationale:
Given the client's history of end-stage renal disease and the symptoms presented, educating her to avoid a high-potassium diet is important. High potassium levels can lead to symptoms like muscle cramps and tingling sensations, which the client is experiencing.