A nurse is caring for a client who has alcohol use disorder and is experiencing withdrawal.
The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following manifestations?
Hyperglycemia.
Decreased blood pressure.
Decreased heart rate.
Hyperthermia.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is D. Hyperthermia.
Choice A reason: Hyperglycemia, which is an elevated blood glucose level, is not typically a direct manifestation of alcohol withdrawal. Alcohol withdrawal can sometimes lead to poor oral intake or vomiting, which might indirectly affect blood sugar levels, but hyperglycemia itself is not a primary concern in the context of alcohol withdrawal.
Choice B reason: Decreased blood pressure During alcohol withdrawal, the sympathetic nervous system is often overactive, leading to symptoms such as increased blood pressure, rather than decreased. Therefore, decreased blood pressure is not a common manifestation of alcohol withdrawal. Normal blood pressure ranges for adults are systolic BP of 100-120mmHg and diastolic BP of 70-80mmHg.
Choice C reason: Decreased heart rate Similar to blood pressure, the heart rate typically increases during alcohol withdrawal due to sympathetic nervous system overactivity. A normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm). Decreased heart rate is not expected during alcohol withdrawal.
Choice D reason: Hyperthermia, or elevated body temperature, is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. This occurs as part of the body’s response to the sudden absence of alcohol, and can be a part of the withdrawal syndrome, which includes a range of symptoms from mild anxiety to severe complications like seizures. Normal body temperature ranges from 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"The client asked me to go on a date with him, but I refused.”. This statement does not demonstrate countertransference. It is a clear example of professional boundaries being maintained, as the staff nurse refused the client's request for a date, which is appropriate in the context of the nurse-client relationship.
Choice B rationale:
"The client needs to accept responsibility for his substance use.”. This statement does not indicate countertransference. It reflects a common and appropriate therapeutic goal, which is to help clients take responsibility for their actions and substance use disorder.
Choice C rationale:
"The client is just like my brother who finally overcame his habit.”. This statement represents countertransference. Countertransference occurs when a healthcare professional's emotions, attitudes, or past experiences influence their perceptions and interactions with a client. In this case, the staff nurse is making a connection between the client and their own brother, suggesting a personal bias based on past experiences. This can hinder the staff nurse's ability to provide objective care.
Choice D rationale:
"The client generally shares his feelings during group therapy sessions.”. This statement does not demonstrate countertransference. It is a straightforward observation of the client's behavior during group therapy sessions and does not involve any emotional or personal bias on the part of the staff nurse.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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