A nurse is caring for a client who has alcohol use disorder. Which of the following statements made by the client indicates the client has a support system?

Rationale for correct choices:

• Ask a trusted person to watch for manifestations of illness: Involving a trusted person in monitoring symptoms can help identify early signs of relapse. Sometimes, clients may not notice subtle changes in their mental state, so a reliable individual can alert the healthcare provider, allowing for early intervention.
• Notify your provider within 48 hr of manifestations of a relapse: Early detection and intervention are key to preventing a full relapse. By notifying the provider within 48 hours, the healthcare team can adjust medications or other interventions promptly, reducing the severity of symptoms.
• Go for a walk to decrease anxiety during times of increased stress: Physical activity, like walking, is beneficial for managing anxiety, which is a common trigger in individuals with schizophrenia. Regular exercise can also promote mental well-being, making it a helpful strategy for coping with stress.
• Report any adverse effects of the medication to the provider immediately: Antipsychotic medications like haloperidol can cause significant side effects, and reporting these early allows the provider to manage or adjust the treatment plan, preventing complications such as extrapyramidal symptoms or neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Limit alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks per week: Alcohol should be avoided entirely, as it can interfere with the effectiveness of antipsychotic medications and worsen psychiatric symptoms.
• Take a dose of the medication as soon as delusions or hallucinations begin: Medications for schizophrenia, like haloperidol, should be taken as prescribed, and adjustments to dosage or frequency should only be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

A. Aspiration: Succinylcholine is used during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) to induce muscle relaxation, but it does not specifically prevent aspiration. Aspiration risk is generally minimized by using an endotracheal tube and appropriate airway management during the procedure, not just succinylcholine.
B. Decreased heart rate: Succinylcholine is not used to manage heart rate. While ECT can cause heart rate fluctuations, other medications, like atropine, are typically used if bradycardia is a concern.
C. Elevated blood pressure: Succinylcholine does not address blood pressure regulation. ECT can cause temporary increases in blood pressure, but succinylcholine is used to relax muscles and does not manage blood pressure.
D. Muscle distress: Succinylcholine is given during ECT to relax muscles and prevent muscle contractions or "muscle distress" during the procedure. Without muscle relaxation, muscle contractions during the procedure could cause injury or severe discomfort.