A nurse in a rehabilitation center is planning care for a newly admitted client who has a history of alcohol use disorder. Which of the following client goals is the highest priority?

A) Have a staff member escort the client to her room:

Having a staff member escort the client to her room might be perceived as restrictive and could potentially escalate the client's anxiety. It's important to give the client some autonomy and not force them into isolation.

B) Allow the client to pace alone until physically tired:

While allowing the client to pace alone might seem like a non-intrusive option, it lacks the therapeutic engagement that can help the client feel supported and understood. It's important for the nurse to actively engage with the client to establish a therapeutic relationship.

C) Instruct the client to sit down and stop pacing:

Instructing the client to stop pacing could potentially increase their agitation and anxiety. Forcing the client to sit down against their wishes might lead to resistance and hinder the development of trust between the nurse and the client.

D) Walk with the client at a gradually slower pace:

This is the correct answer. Walking with the client at a gradually slower pace is a therapeutic approach that allows the nurse to build rapport, provide support, and help the client regulate their emotions. It respects the client's need for movement while also addressing their emotional state.

A. Helping the client identify positive personality traits.

While addressing self-esteem and positive personality traits is valuable for the client's overall well-being, it is not the immediate priority during the detoxification phase. Ensuring physiological safety comes first.

B. Providing for adequate hydration and rest.

Explanation: The detoxification process from alcohol can result in withdrawal symptoms that range from mild discomfort to severe medical complications. Adequate hydration and rest are essential during this phase to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent potential complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and seizures. Maintaining the client's physiological stability is of utmost importance.

C. Educating the client about the consequences of alcohol misuse.

Providing education about the consequences of alcohol misuse is important for the client's understanding and motivation for recovery, but it's not the primary concern during the initial detoxification phase.

D. Confronting the use of denial and other defense mechanisms.

Addressing denial and defense mechanisms is important for therapy, but it might not be the immediate priority. Physiological stabilization through hydration and rest takes precedence in the detoxification phase.