The doctor ordered a lithium level to be drawn on a patient who is suspected to be toxic. The patient, although bipolar, is also experiencing hallucinations. The lab technician enters the patient's room to draw the specimen. The patient begins to shout, "
"I am going to be sucked dry." The nurse enters the patient's room and states the following:
A.
"The technician must draw your blood now."
B.
"Don't worry, we will leave enough for you to live."
C.
"I'll stay with you awhile and we can go over today's activities."
D.
"The technician is here to help you and needs to take your blood in order to assist you."
ANS: C
Reduce the patient's anxiety first. Then proceed with attempting the blood draw.
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