A nurse is caring for a client with a blood alcohol level of 36%. Which of the following should be included in the priority risk assessment for a client with acute alcohol intoxication? (Select all that apply)
Risk for aspiration related to impaired gag reflex.
Risk for injury related to impaired coordination and judgment.
Impaired liver function related to alcohol toxicity.
Risk for falls related to dizziness and unsteady gait.
Risk for infection related to impaired immune function.
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D,E
Choice A Reason:
Aspiration is a significant risk for clients with acute alcohol intoxication due to an impaired gag reflex. Alcohol can depress the central nervous system, leading to a decreased level of consciousness and a diminished gag reflex, which increases the risk of aspiration of gastric contents into the lungs.
Choice B Reason:
Impaired coordination and judgment are common in acute alcohol intoxication, increasing the risk of injury. Alcohol affects the cerebellum, the part of the brain that regulates coordination and balance, as well as the frontal lobes, which are responsible for judgment and decision-making.
Choice C Reason:
Alcohol is metabolized by the liver, and excessive alcohol intake can lead to alcohol toxicity and liver impairment. Acute alcohol intoxication can cause hepatic steatosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and even acute liver failure in severe cases.
Choice D Reason:
Dizziness and an unsteady gait are direct effects of alcohol's impact on the vestibular system and the brain's ability to process spatial information, leading to an increased risk of falls.
Choice E Reason:
Alcohol intoxication can impair immune function, making the client more susceptible to infections. Alcohol disrupts immune pathways in complex ways, which can impair the body's ability to defend against infections
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Supporting the client's attempt to rebuild damaged interpersonal relationships is an important long-term goal in the recovery process. However, it is not the immediate priority when a client is experiencing acute withdrawal symptoms, which can be life-threatening.
Choice B reason:
Educating the client about the effects of alcohol dependence and the need for rehabilitation is crucial for long-term recovery and preventing relapse. Nevertheless, during acute withdrawal, the priority is to manage the physical and psychological symptoms safely.
Choice C reason:
Teaching the client alternative strategies for managing anxiety is a valuable part of therapy and helps in long-term coping. However, during acute withdrawal, the client may not be able to learn or apply these strategies effectively due to the severity of their symptoms.
Choice D reason:
Preparing to administer Ativan as ordered is the priority action. Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine commonly used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It helps to prevent seizures, reduce agitation, and manage other withdrawal symptoms. During the acute phase of alcohol withdrawal, maintaining physiological stability and ensuring the client's safety are the primary concerns.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Isolate the client for a period of time.
Isolation can lead to increased anxiety and may not be beneficial for a client with OCD. It does not address the underlying issue of the compulsive behaviors and may even exacerbate them.
Choice B: Plan the client's schedule to allow time for rituals.
This is generally the most effective approach. By allowing time for rituals, the nurse acknowledges the client's need for these behaviors and reduces anxiety. Over time, the goal would be to gradually reduce the time spent on these rituals as the client develops more effective coping strategies.
Choice C: Set strict limits on the behaviors so that the client can conform to the unit rules and schedules.
While it's important to have a structured environment, setting strict limits on compulsive behaviors can increase anxiety and resistance. It's more beneficial to work with the client to gradually decrease these behaviors rather than attempting to stop them abruptly.
Choice D: Confront the client about the senseless nature of the repetitive behaviors.
Confrontation is not typically helpful for clients with OCD. These clients are usually well aware that their behaviors are irrational, but they feel compelled to perform them anyway. Confrontation can lead to increased anxiety and defensiveness.
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