A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for phenelzine. The nurse should instruct the client to avoid which of the following over-the-counter medications?

A. Request a prescription for varenicline from the client's provider.
Varenicline is used to help people quit smoking and is not indicated for the treatment of opioid use disorder.

B. Initiate facility procedures for emergency commitment.
Emergency commitment typically involves legal procedures and should only be pursued if the client poses an immediate danger to themselves or others. It is not the appropriate action in this scenario without further information indicating such a need.

C. Inform the client about policies for dispensing methadone.
Methadone is a medication used to help people reduce or quit their use of heroin or other opiates. Methadone is dispensed under strict regulations and guidelines due to its potential for misuse. The nurse should inform the client about the policies and procedures related to the dispensing of methadone, ensuring the client understands the rules and requirements associated with its use.

D. Assess the client using the CAGE questionnaire.
The CAGE questionnaire is a tool used to screen for alcohol use disorder, not opioid use disorder. While it's essential to assess the client comprehensively, using appropriate tools, in this case, informing the client about methadone dispensing policies is the most relevant action.

A. Contact a close relative of the client to discuss the discharge plan:
Involving close relatives or a support system can be beneficial for the client's recovery. However, it's crucial to respect the client's confidentiality and privacy. In some cases, clients might not want their relatives involved or might not have a supportive family environment, so this option should be approached cautiously and with the client's consent.

B. Refer the client to a self-help group:
This is a highly recommended action. Self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provide a supportive environment where individuals with alcohol use disorder can share their experiences and coping strategies. These groups can significantly contribute to maintaining sobriety after rehabilitation.

C. Request a discharge prescription for buprenorphine for the client:
Buprenorphine is typically used to treat opioid use disorder, not alcohol use disorder. Medications like disulfiram, naltrexone, and acamprosate are more commonly prescribed to help individuals manage alcohol cravings and maintain abstinence. However, the choice of medication should be individualized and determined by a healthcare provider based on the client's specific needs and medical history.

D. Teach the client to practice systematic desensitization:
Systematic desensitization is a therapeutic technique used to treat phobias and anxieties by gradually exposing individuals to their fears in a controlled and safe manner. While it can be helpful for addressing anxiety-related issues, it's not a standard treatment for alcohol use disorder. Therapeutic interventions for alcohol use disorder often focus on behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups.