Patient Data

Exhibits here

The nurse engages the client in conversation about her feelings and some of her coping mechanisms.

Click to specify which client statement or behavior is most likely associated with each of the listed defense mechanisms. Some statements or behaviors may be consistent with more than one mechanism. Each column must have at least one but may have more than one answer selected.

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.

Choice A rationale:
Restricting visitors to family members only may not necessarily be a beneficial intervention and could potentially isolate the client further, which may not be in their best interest.

Choice B rationale:
Discussing the client's suicide plan is essential to assess the level of risk and develop strategies to keep the client safe. It allows the healthcare team to understand the severity of the client's depressive symptoms and potential suicidal ideation.

Choice C rationale:
Limiting the time allowed to play video games may be a consideration in a broader plan of care, but it is not a primary intervention for addressing depression in adolescents. The focus should be on safety, communication, and building a therapeutic relationship.

Choice D rationale:
Encouraging the client to discuss thoughts and feelings about wanting to die is crucial for therapeutic communication and assessment. It provides an opportunity for the client to express their emotions and allows for intervention and support.

Choice E rationale:
Reinforcing statements regarding a will to live and realistic plans for the future is important for building hope and motivation in the client. It can be part of a positive, strengths-based approach to treatment.