A nurse is caring for a 20-year-old college student who has a 2-year history of bulimia nervosa. She tells the nurse, "I know my eating binges and vomiting are not normal, but I cannot do anything about them." Which of the following is a therapeutic response by the nurse?

The client should expect hand tremors to start less than 24 hours after they stop drinking when reinforcing teaching about alcohol withdrawal with a client who has a history of alcohol use disorder.

Choice A, "Disulfiram will prevent my cravings for alcohol," is incorrect because disulfiram works by creating a very unpleasant reaction when the client drinks alcohol and is not a medication for preventing cravings.

Choice B, "It is important that I take Vitamin C to prevent liver cirrhosis or other liver damage," is incorrect because Vitamin C is not indicated for liver disease related to alcohol use disorder and is not effective in preventing it.

Choice C, "Withdrawal symptoms should last about 5 to 7 days once they begin," is incorrect because withdrawal symptoms can last for several days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the alcohol use disorder.

Answer: A

Rationale:

A) "It must be very difficult for you to see your wife in pain.": This response acknowledges the partner's feelings and provides emotional support. It shows empathy and validates the partner's experience, helping to build rapport and trust between the nurse and the family member.

B) "I wish there was more that I could do to relieve your wife's pain, too.": While this response expresses sympathy, it might unintentionally convey a sense of helplessness or inadequacy on the part of the nurse, which could increase the partner's anxiety or frustration.

C) "I'm sure your wife will begin to feel better soon.": This response is intended to be reassuring, but it can come off as dismissive of the partner's current concern and may not address their immediate emotional needs. It also makes a promise that the nurse cannot guarantee.

D) "We're doing everything we can to keep your wife comfortable.": This response provides factual information about the care being provided, but it does not address the partner's emotional distress. It focuses on the actions of the healthcare team rather than acknowledging the partner's feelings.