A nurse is caring for a client who is withdrawing from opioids. Which of the following medications would the nurse prepare to administer?

Choice A rationale:

This choice describes tertiary prevention, which focuses on minimizing the consequences of an existing disorder or preventing further deterioration. It is not directly related to primary prevention, which addresses the prevention of the onset of disorders.

Choice B rationale:

This choice corresponds to secondary prevention, which involves early intervention to minimize the impact of an illness that has already begun. It aims to reduce the prevalence and duration of the illness but is not the primary focus of primary prevention.

Choice C rationale:

The correct choice. Primary prevention focuses on reducing the incidence of mental disorders within the population. It involves strategies that target the entire population or specific high-risk groups to prevent the initial development of mental health issues. These strategies may include public health campaigns, education, and interventions to promote mental well-being and resilience.

Choice D rationale:

This choice describes the process of early identification and initiation of treatment, which is a component of secondary prevention. It aims to prevent the progression of existing problems rather than preventing the initial development of mental disorders.

Choice A rationale:

Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is a potential physical symptom of alcohol withdrawal. When alcohol-dependent individuals suddenly stop or reduce their alcohol intake, it can lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, resulting in elevated heart rate.

Choice B rationale:

Tremors (shakes) are common during alcohol withdrawal due to the suppression of the central nervous system by alcohol. Abrupt cessation of alcohol can lead to overactivity in the nervous system, resulting in tremors.

Choice C rationale:

Hallucinations can occur during alcohol withdrawal and are usually visual or tactile in nature. These hallucinations are often referred to as alcoholic hallucinosis and can be distressing for the individual experiencing them.

Choice E rationale:

Seizures can be a severe consequence of alcohol withdrawal. Known as alcohol withdrawal seizures, these episodes can occur within the first 48 hours after cessation of heavy alcohol consumption and are attributed to the hyperexcitability of the central nervous system.

Choice D rationale:

Hypotension (low blood pressure) is not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal. In fact, alcohol withdrawal often leads to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate due to the hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system.