A client presents to the Emergency Department (ED) after ingesting phencyclidine (PCP). Characteristic behaviors of an individual who has ingested PCP include:

d. Speaks another language and is in need of an interpreter to translate.

The correct answer is c. Is accompanied by a family member who will not let the client answer questions.

Choice A Reason: Is from another state and says they are here on a long vacation

This choice is not necessarily indicative of human trafficking. While being from another state and claiming to be on a long vacation might raise some questions, it is not a definitive sign of trafficking. Many people travel for various reasons, and this alone does not suggest that the person is a victim of human trafficking.

Choice B Reason: Has a cell phone that is not working in the emergency department

This choice is also not a strong indicator of human trafficking. A non-working cell phone can be due to many reasons, such as technical issues or lack of service. While traffickers may sometimes control their victims’ communication devices, this alone is not enough to suspect trafficking.

Choice C Reason: Is accompanied by a family member who will not let the client answer questions

This choice is a strong indicator of human trafficking. Traffickers often control their victims’ interactions with others, including healthcare providers. If a family member or companion is overly controlling and does not allow the client to speak for themselves, it raises a significant red flag for potential trafficking. This behavior is often seen in trafficking situations to prevent the victim from disclosing their true circumstances.

Choice D Reason: Speaks another language and is in need of an interpreter to translate

This choice is not a definitive sign of human trafficking. Many people who are not victims of trafficking may speak another language and require an interpreter. While language barriers can complicate communication, they do not alone indicate trafficking. However, if combined with other signs, it could contribute to a suspicion of trafficking.

Choice A Reason:

Sedated, heightened senses, withdrawn. This statement is incorrect. While PCP can cause a range of sensory and psychological effects, sedation and withdrawal are not typical primary symptoms. PCP is more likely to cause agitation and aggressive behavior rather than sedation.

Choice B Reason:

Heightened sensory perceptions, nystagmus, hypotension. This statement is partially correct. PCP can cause heightened sensory perceptions and nystagmus (rapid, involuntary eye movements), but hypotension is not a common symptom. Instead, PCP often leads to hypertension (high blood pressure) due to its stimulant effects.

Choice C Reason:

Grandiose delusions, hypotension, quiet. This statement is incorrect. While PCP can cause grandiose delusions, it is more likely to result in agitation and aggressive behavior rather than a quiet demeanor. Hypotension is also not a typical symptom of PCP intoxication.

Choice D Reason:

Violence, psychomotor agitation, hypertension. This statement is correct. PCP intoxication is commonly associated with violent behavior, psychomotor agitation, and hypertension. These symptoms are due to the drug’s stimulant and dissociative effects, which can lead to severe agitation and aggressive behavior.