A nurse is providing care for a client who is malnourished and appears exhausted. What data would cause the nurse to suspect the client is a victim of human trafficking? The client:

The correct answer is a. I feel so defeated and want to hide after I have binged.

Choice A Reason:

Individuals with binge-eating disorder often experience intense feelings of shame, guilt, and defeat after a binge episode. This emotional response is a hallmark of the disorder and can lead to further cycles of binge eating as a way to cope with these negative emotions. The statement “I feel so defeated and want to hide after I have binged” accurately reflects the emotional turmoil that accompanies binge-eating episodes.

Choice B Reason:

The statement “I am able to control the pace of my bingeing when I start getting full” is not typically associated with binge-eating disorder. People with this disorder often feel a loss of control over their eating during a binge episode and are unable to stop even when they are full. This lack of control is a key diagnostic criterion for binge-eating disorder.

Choice C Reason:

While feeling hungry can trigger a binge, it is not the primary characteristic of binge-eating disorder. The disorder is more about the uncontrollable nature of the eating episodes and the emotional distress that follows, rather than just responding to hunger. Therefore, the statement “My binges usually start off with feeling hungry” does not fully capture the essence of the disorder.

Choice D Reason:

Binge-eating as a reward for completing difficult tasks is not a typical feature of binge-eating disorder. The disorder is more about using food as a way to cope with negative emotions rather than as a reward. The statement “I binge to reward myself for completing difficult tasks” does not align with the common emotional triggers for binge-eating episodes.

d. Do not reduce normal dietary sodium intake.

Explanation of Choices

Choice A Reason: Limit Fluid Intake to 1,000 mL of Fluid per Day

Limiting fluid intake to 1,000 mL per day is not recommended for clients taking lithium carbonate. Adequate hydration is crucial because lithium can affect kidney function and fluid balance. Dehydration can increase lithium levels in the blood, leading to toxicity. Therefore, clients should maintain normal fluid intake to ensure proper hydration and avoid complications.

Choice B Reason: Adjust the Dose if You Feel Out of Control

Clients should never adjust their lithium dose on their own. Lithium has a narrow therapeutic range, meaning the difference between an effective dose and a toxic dose is small. Any changes in dosage should be made under the supervision of a healthcare provider to avoid the risk of lithium toxicity or subtherapeutic levels. Self-adjusting the dose can lead to serious health risks.

Choice C Reason: Have Serum Lithium Levels Checked Every 6 Months

While regular monitoring of serum lithium levels is essential, checking levels every 6 months may not be sufficient. Initially, serum lithium levels should be checked more frequently, such as every 1 to 2 weeks, until stable therapeutic levels are achieved. After stabilization, levels are typically monitored every 3 to 6 months, depending on the patient’s clinical status and any changes in medication or health condition. Regular monitoring helps ensure the medication remains within the therapeutic range and prevents toxicity.

Choice D Reason: Do Not Reduce Normal Dietary Sodium Intake

Maintaining normal dietary sodium intake is crucial for clients taking lithium. Sodium levels in the body can affect lithium levels; a decrease in sodium intake can lead to higher lithium levels and increase the risk of toxicity. Conversely, an increase in sodium intake can lower lithium levels, reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, clients should be advised to maintain a consistent sodium intake to help stabilize lithium levels in the blood.