A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing manifestations of alcohol withdrawal. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate the provider to prescribe?
Methadone
Salicylate
Benzodiazepines
Diphenhydramine
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason : Methadone is an opioid used primarily for opioid maintenance therapy and to relieve severe pain, not typically for alcohol withdrawal. It does not address the specific symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal such as seizures or delirium tremens¹.
Choice B reason : Salicylates, such as aspirin, are not used to treat alcohol withdrawal. They can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in the gastrointestinal tract, which can be a concern in individuals with a history of heavy alcohol use¹.
Choice C reason : Benzodiazepines, such as chlordiazepoxide, are the first-line treatment for alcohol withdrawal. They help reduce the risk of seizures, ease withdrawal symptoms, and can prevent the progression to more severe forms of withdrawal such as delirium tremens¹².
Choice D reason : Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine with sedative properties, but it is not a first-line medication for alcohol withdrawal. While it may provide some sedation, it does not prevent seizures or other serious complications of alcohol withdrawal¹.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason : Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means it helps the body get rid of excess water without causing potassium loss. Therefore, a decreased potassium level would not be expected.
Choice B reason : Spironolactone can lead to hyperkalemia (increased potassium levels) and hyponatremia (decreased sodium levels) because it causes the kidneys to excrete sodium while retaining potassium.
Choice C reason : A decreased phosphate level is not a typical finding associated with spironolactone use. Phosphate levels are more commonly affected by renal function and parathyroid hormone levels.
Choice D reason : A decreased chloride level is not specifically associated with spironolactone. While electrolyte imbalances can occur, spironolactone primarily affects potassium and sodium balance.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason : While it is important to assure the client, the nurse must first verify that there is a formal DNR order in place to legally honor the client's wishes¹².
Choice B reason : Checking for a DNR order in the medical record is the correct action to ensure that the client's wishes regarding resuscitation are documented and will be followed by all healthcare providers¹².
Choice C reason : Asking about a healthcare proxy is important, but it is secondary to confirming that the client's wishes are documented in the medical record through a DNR order or advance directives¹².
Choice D reason : Verifying a signed copy of the advance directives is crucial, but the immediate step is to check for a DNR order, which is specifically related to the client's request not to be resuscitated¹².
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