A nurse is admitting a patient to the medical unit who has a history of alcohol use disorder. The nurse should be aware of which of the following potential long-term physiological effects on the patient's body? (Select all that apply)

Choice A: Isolate the client for a period of time.
Isolation can lead to increased anxiety and may not be beneficial for a client with OCD. It does not address the underlying issue of the compulsive behaviors and may even exacerbate them.

Choice B: Plan the client's schedule to allow time for rituals.
This is generally the most effective approach. By allowing time for rituals, the nurse acknowledges the client's need for these behaviors and reduces anxiety. Over time, the goal would be to gradually reduce the time spent on these rituals as the client develops more effective coping strategies.

Choice C: Set strict limits on the behaviors so that the client can conform to the unit rules and schedules.
While it's important to have a structured environment, setting strict limits on compulsive behaviors can increase anxiety and resistance. It's more beneficial to work with the client to gradually decrease these behaviors rather than attempting to stop them abruptly.

Choice D: Confront the client about the senseless nature of the repetitive behaviors.
Confrontation is not typically helpful for clients with OCD. These clients are usually well aware that their behaviors are irrational, but they feel compelled to perform them anyway. Confrontation can lead to increased anxiety and defensiveness.

Choice A reason:
Complicated grieving is a natural response to the loss of a loved one, characterized by intense sorrow and longing. However, the client's statement indicates a sense of hopelessness and a lack of desire to continue living, which goes beyond the typical symptoms of complicated grieving. While it is important to assess for complicated grieving, the client's expression of not wanting to go on suggests a more immediate risk.

Choice B reason:
Chronic pain can lead to depression and decreased quality of life, but the client does not mention any physical pain. The absence of such complaints makes chronic pain a less likely cause for the client's current state. It is still important to assess for any physical discomfort that the client may not be communicating.

Choice C reason:
The client's statement of questioning the purpose of continuing life is a clear indicator of suicidal ideation, which warrants immediate further assessment. The risk for suicide is often heightened following significant life events such as the loss of a spouse. The nurse must prioritize this assessment to ensure the client's safety.

Choice D reason:
Social isolation can contribute to feelings of loneliness and depression, particularly in the elderly who have lost a significant other. While social isolation is a concern and can exacerbate other mental health issues, the client's explicit questioning of life's worth points more directly to a risk for suicide.