A nurse on a mental health unit is preparing an in-service about ethical concepts when providing client care. Which of the following definitions should the nurse include when discussing advocacy?

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. "Why are you having difficulty coping?": This question may sound accusatory and could make the client feel defensive. It is more effective to explore their feelings and concerns in a non-judgmental way.

B. "You should find a therapist who can help you.": While therapy can be helpful, this statement is directive and does not invite the client to express their feelings. It also may come across as dismissive of the client's current struggles.

C. "Everything will be okay if you give it some time.": This statement minimizes the client's feelings and may invalidate their experience. It's important to acknowledge their emotions and work with them to explore coping strategies rather than offering empty reassurances.

D. "Tell me about your support system.": This is the most appropriate response, it encourages the client to reflect on the resources and people they can rely on and provides an opportunity for the nurse to assess the client's support network and coping mechanisms.