A nurse is giving a presentation about intimate partner abuse for a community group. Which of the following statements by a group member indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Rationale for correct choices:

• Client's recent loss: The recent death of the client's parents is a critical factor in the client's relapse into alcohol use. This significant emotional stress can exacerbate substance use and affect the client's mental and physical health, requiring close monitoring and support.
• Client's recent consumption of alcohol: The client's last drink was estimated to be 2 hours ago, and they are currently intoxicated with a blood alcohol level (BAC) of 310 mg/dL. This level is dangerously high, requiring immediate observation for signs of alcohol toxicity.
• Gastrointestinal assessment: The client reports weight loss and minimal appetite, which may be indicative of alcohol-related damage to the gastrointestinal system, such as gastritis or liver disease. This warrants a thorough assessment to address any underlying issues.
• Neurological assessment: The client is intoxicated and has slurred speech, indicating impaired neurological functioning. Additionally, alcohol use disorder can lead to long-term neurological impairments, such as cognitive deficits, which require careful monitoring during withdrawal.
• Blood alcohol level: A blood alcohol level of 310 mg/dL is critically elevated and requires urgent follow-up. This level is significantly above the normal range and indicates severe intoxication, which can lead to life-threatening complications such as respiratory depression or coma.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Genitourinary assessment: There are no immediate concerns related to the client's genitourinary system based on the provided information. The client did not report any issues or symptoms in this area.
• Smoking history: Although smoking history is important in overall health assessments, the client's current concerns (alcohol use disorder, recent loss, intoxication) take priority over the 20 years ago smoking history in this situation.
• Respiratory assessment: The client's respiratory rate is 10/min, which is low but not immediately alarming in the context of alcohol intoxication. Close monitoring is required, but there is no urgent indication of respiratory distress at this time. The client ‘s respiratory examination is normal as well as SPO2.
• Cardiac assessment: The client's heart rate and blood pressure are within normal limits, and there is no indication of acute cardiac distress. Therefore, a cardiac assessment does not require immediate follow-up unless other symptoms develop.

A. "The honeymoon stage of violence usually gets longer over time": The honeymoon stage typically becomes shorter as the cycle of abuse progresses. Over time, the tension-building and abusive episodes tend to increase in frequency and intensity.
B. "Survivors of abuse often feel guilty": Survivors of intimate partner abuse often feel guilty, ashamed, or responsible for the abuse. They may believe they somehow provoked the violence or could have prevented it.
C. "As abuse continues, victims become more determined to be independent": Victims of abuse often become more dependent over time due to manipulation, fear, and control exerted by the abuser. They may find it difficult to leave or make independent decisions.
D. "Abusers often have high self-esteem": This statement is generally inaccurate as abusers often have low self-esteem and may use controlling behaviors as a way to mask feelings of inadequacy or insecurity.