A nurse is caring for an adolescent who recently found out that they are unexpectedly pregnant. Which of the following statements indicates that the client is emotionally prepared for pregnancy?

Rationale:

• Opioid intoxication. The client was found unresponsive with a needle in the left antecubital space, suggesting recent intravenous drug use. The administration of naloxone, an opioid antagonist, further supports opioid intoxication as the likely condition. Additionally, the client presents with decreased level of consciousness, respiratory depression (respiratory rate of 10/min), and decreased bowel sounds, all of which are classic signs of opioid intoxication.
• Pupil characteristics
  The client’s pupils are miotic (constricted), which is a hallmark sign of opioid intoxication due to the drug’s effect on the parasympathetic nervous system. Opioids, particularly heroin and prescription narcotics, cause pinpoint pupils, which can help differentiate opioid intoxication from other conditions that may cause altered mental status.

Rationale for Incorrect Options:

• Opioid withdrawal is characterized by symptoms such as agitation, dilated pupils, diarrhea, and tachycardia, none of which are present in this client. Instead, the client exhibits signs of central nervous system depression rather than hyperactivity, making withdrawal unlikely.
• Hallucinogen intoxication typically presents with hallucinations, paranoia, agitation, and altered sensory perception. The client’s presentation does not include these findings, making hallucinogen intoxication an unlikely cause.
• Alcohol intoxication is associated with slurred speech, ataxia, and confusion, but the client’s history indicates only one beer was consumed, which is not enough to cause such profound central nervous system depression. The presence of a needle and response to naloxone further support opioid intoxication rather than alcohol intoxication.
• Alcohol withdrawal presents with symptoms such as tremors, tachycardia, hypertension, and agitation. The client is instead experiencing respiratory depression and sedation, which are inconsistent with alcohol withdrawal.

A. Diminished hearing. Hearing loss following a stapedectomy is expected due to postoperative swelling, packing in the ear, and fluid accumulation. Hearing typically improves as healing progresses. This does not require further action by the nurse.
B. Pupils. The preoperative and postoperative pupil assessments are similar (3.5 mm preoperatively and 3 mm postoperatively), and both are equal and reactive to light. No significant neurological change is noted, so this does not require further action.
C. Lung assessment. The lungs were clear bilaterally preoperatively, and there is no indication of respiratory compromise or abnormal lung sounds postoperatively. This does not require further action.
D. Facial nerve assessment. Facial nerve injury (cranial nerve VII dysfunction) is a potential complication of stapedectomy. The nurse should assess for asymmetry in facial movements such as difficulty smiling or drooping, weakness, or numbness, which could indicate facial nerve damage. This requires further action.
E. Vertigo. Postoperative vertigo and dizziness can occur due to disturbance of the inner ear during surgery. Severe or persistent vertigo may indicate labyrinthine injury or perilymph fistula, which could require medical intervention. This requires further action.
F. Pain rating. Postoperative pain is expected, but severe or increasing pain may indicate complications such as infection, excessive pressure in the middle ear, or improper prosthesis placement. Pain that is not relieved by analgesics requires further evaluation. This requires further action.