The nurse is caring for a client with a history of depression who is prescribed a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Which side effect should the nurse monitor for?

Choice A reason: Teaching mask use, hand washing, and distancing is important for preventing COVID-19 spread but is secondary to immediate isolation. Suspected cases require prompt separation to minimize transmission risk, as symptoms like fever and anosmia suggest high infectivity, making isolation the priority action.

Choice B reason: Counseling family to monitor symptoms is a follow-up measure, not the immediate priority. Isolation prevents active transmission in the emergency department, where the client is currently located. Family monitoring is relevant post-discharge but secondary to containing the virus in the acute setting.

Choice C reason: Isolation is the most critical action for a suspected COVID-19 case, as symptoms like fever, anosmia, and aches indicate potential infectivity. Separating the client from others without proper PPE prevents airborne and droplet transmission, protecting patients and staff in the emergency department, making it the priority.

Choice D reason: Reporting COVID-19 results to health authorities is mandatory but occurs after test confirmation. Immediate isolation prevents transmission in the emergency department while awaiting results. Reporting is a secondary administrative action, as the priority is containing the virus in the acute care setting.

Choice A reason: Assisting with mobility and safety is critical in multiple sclerosis, as muscle weakness and spasticity increase fall risk. Physical therapy and assistive devices enhance safety, reducing injury risk, making it the priority intervention to maintain independence and prevent complications like fractures.

Choice B reason: A high-sodium diet is inappropriate, as it may exacerbate fluid retention, unrelated to multiple sclerosis. Mobility assistance is the priority, as falls are a significant risk due to neurological deficits, making dietary sodium irrelevant to primary symptom management.

Choice C reason: Restricting physical therapy worsens mobility and spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Assisting with mobility and safety is critical, as it prevents falls and maintains function, making therapy restriction counterproductive, as exercise supports neurological health and independence.

Choice D reason: Promoting bed rest increases muscle atrophy and spasticity in multiple sclerosis. Mobility and safety measures are essential, as they reduce fall risk and maintain function, making bed rest detrimental to managing neurological symptoms and overall patient well-being.