When assessing a patient taking stimulant medications, the nurse should monitor for which of the following?

A. The client has a pleasant affect: "Affect" refers to outward emotional expression, whereas "mood" is the client's internal emotional state.

B. The client appears happy with an elevated mood: The nurse should document objective data rather than interpreting the client’s emotions.

C. The client self-isolated today: While self-isolation may indicate mood disturbances, it does not directly document the client’s reported mood.

D. The client rates their mood 4 out of 10: This entry reflects the client’s subjective report using a measurable scale, making it the most accurate documentation.

A. Educate the patient about the time period before new medications become effective. Education is important but not the priority in a crisis situation. Immediate safety is the top concern.

B. Have the client verbalize their plans for discharge. This is a future-oriented intervention, but the priority is ensuring the client's safety now.

C. Encouraging the client to participate in group therapy. Group therapy is beneficial but does not take precedence over ensuring immediate safety.

D. Monitor the client closely but at random intervals. Patients with suicidal ideation require close monitoring to prevent self-harm. Observing at random intervals reduces the chance of the patient anticipating when they are not being watched.