Nokea
A client with catatonic schizophrenia has been posturing, standing with his left arm upraised and his right foot off the floor. For the most part, he ignores attempts at nursing intervention but will occasionally walk, sit, or lie down for a few minutes. The client eats standing up if the nurse brings a tray to the room. The priority nursing order would be to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess for lower extremity edema bid. It is important to assess for lower extremity edema in this client with catatonic schizophrenia as posturing in a standing position for prolonged periods can lead to decreased circulation and potential development of edema. This assessment is crucial to monitor the client's physical health and prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis.
Choice A is incorrect as insisting the client sit or lie down for 30 minutes hourly may not address the underlying issue of potential lower extremity edema and could potentially worsen the client's condition by causing distress.
Choice C is incorrect as providing high-calorie drinks hourly does not address the immediate physical health concern of lower extremity edema and may not be appropriate without a comprehensive assessment of the client's nutritional needs.
Choice D is incorrect as taking the client to activities therapy once daily does not address the immediate need for assessing lower extremity edema and may not be suitable if the client's physical health