A nurse on a crisis hotline is speaking to a client who says, "I just took an entire bottle of amitriptyline." Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
A: "I'm glad you called, and I want to send an ambulance to help you."
B:"You must have been feeling pretty depressed to do that."
C:"Were you trying to kill yourself by taking an overdose?"
D:"Do you know how many pills were in the bottle?"
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
In a situation where a client has ingested a potentially lethal amount of medication, immediate medical intervention is crucial. Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant, and overdose can lead to life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias, severe hypotension, and seizures. The nurse's priority is to ensure the safety of the client by sending an ambulance. This response also acknowledges the client's cry for help and initiates prompt action.
Choice B Reason:
While it's important to recognize the emotional state of the client, this response does not address the immediate medical emergency. The client's safety is the priority, and while their feelings are valid, this choice does not facilitate the urgent care needed.
Choice C Reason:
Asking if the client was trying to commit suicide can come across as judgmental and may close off communication. It's essential to maintain an open line of communication and focus on getting medical help rather than determining intent at this critical moment.
Choice D Reason:
Knowing the quantity of medication ingested can be useful information for medical professionals; however, it is not the most immediate concern in a crisis situation. The first response should be to ensure that medical help is on its way.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Increased heart rate is not typically a sign of opioid overdose. Opioid overdose often leads to a decrease in the body's autonomic responses, which can cause a slowing of the heart rate rather than an increase.
Choice B reason:
Slow, shallow breathing is a hallmark sign of opioid overdose. Opioids can depress the central nervous system, leading to respiratory depression. This is a critical symptom and requires immediate medical attention¹²³⁴.
Choice C reason:
Constricted pupils, also known as pinpoint pupils, are another classic sign of opioid overdose. This occurs due to the action of opioids on the part of the brain that regulates the size of the pupils¹²³⁴.
Choice D reason:
Increased motor activity is generally not associated with opioid overdose. Instead, opioids tend to cause a decrease in motor activity, leading to lethargy and a lack of coordination.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: I will join a book club in my neighborhood.
Joining a book club in the neighborhood can be a good step towards socializing and overcoming the fear of open or crowded places. However, the success of this step largely depends on the severity of the client's agoraphobia.
Choice B: I plan to sit on a park bench for a few minutes each day.
This is a good practice as it involves gradual exposure to the outside world, which can help in managing agoraphobia. The client can start with a few minutes and then gradually increase the time spent outside.
Choice C: I should avoid entering elevators and other closed spaces.
Avoidance is not a solution for agoraphobia. In fact, avoiding places or situations out of fear can reinforce the phobia. The goal of treatment is to help the client face these situations rather than avoid them.
Choice D: I can try participating in group therapy every week.
Group therapy can be beneficial as it provides a supportive environment where the client can learn from the experiences of others dealing with the same issues. It can also help the client feel less isolated.
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