A nurse is assisting with the care of client in a clinic. Based on the information in the client's medical record, which of the following findings require immediate follow-up? Select the 4 findings that require immediate follow-up by the nurse.
Explanation & Rationale
A. Witnessing the death of their parents and sibling: Experiencing such severe trauma places the client at high risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complicated grief. Immediate follow-up is necessary to assess emotional safety and provide appropriate mental health interventions. B. Attends school regularly: Regular school attendance is a positive sign of functioning and does not require immediate follow-up. It indicates that the client maintains some level of daily routine and social engagement. C. Client experiences nightmares: Nightmares following trauma can indicate PTSD or acute stress reaction. These symptoms warrant prompt assessment and intervention to prevent worsening sleep disturbances, anxiety, or functional impairment. D. Blood pressure 122/80 mm Hg: This is within normal limits for a 16-year-old and does not require immediate follow-up. It is not indicative of acute physical risk. E. Heart rate 99/min: While slightly elevated, this heart rate is within a mild range of normal for adolescents under stress and does not require immediate follow-up unless accompanied by other acute symptoms. F. Startles easily during thunderstorms: A mild startle response, especially with a prior fear of storms, is not an urgent concern. While it may relate to trauma, it is not immediately dangerous or requiring urgent follow-up. G. Friend reporting client is not themselves: Changes in behavior observed by peers can indicate worsening mental health or risk of self-harm. Immediate follow-up is important to evaluate mood, coping, and safety. H. Smoking marijuana to clear their mind: Self-medicating with substances is a significant safety concern, particularly in adolescents coping with trauma. Immediate follow-up is required to assess for substance use disorder and potential harm to mental and physical health.