An 18-year-old client is brought to the emergency department with a suspected drug overdose. Which information is most important for the nurse to obtain from the family?
The drug that was ingested.
The time since drug ingestion.
Reason for the suicide attemp
Past history of depression.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: A. The drug that was ingested is the most important information because knowing the specific substance determines the course of treatment. For example, acetaminophen overdose requires administration of N-acetylcysteine, while opioid overdose requires naloxone. Different drugs have different toxic effects, antidotes, and supportive measures, making this information critical to providing appropriate and potentially life-saving care.
Choice B rationale: The time since drug ingestion is important because many interventions, such as gastric lavage or activated charcoal, are time-sensitive. However, without knowing the specific drug, it is difficult to determine whether these interventions are necessary or effective
Choice C rationale: Knowing the reason for the suicide attempt is important for overall assessment and treatment planning but may not provide immediate information for the current situation.
Choice D rationale: Past history of depression is relevant to the client's overall mental health, but in the context of a suspected drug overdose, the time since ingestion takes precedence.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:A. The drug that was ingested is the most important information because knowing the specific substance determines the course of treatment. For example, acetaminophen overdose requires administration of N-acetylcysteine, while opioid overdose requires naloxone. Different drugs have different toxic effects, antidotes, and supportive measures, making this information critical to providing appropriate and potentially life-saving care.
Choice B rationale: The time since drug ingestion is important because many interventions, such as gastric lavage or activated charcoal, are time-sensitive. However, without knowing the specific drug, it is difficult to determine whether these interventions are necessary or effective
Choice C rationale: Knowing the reason for the suicide attempt is important for overall assessment and treatment planning but may not provide immediate information for the current situation.
Choice D rationale: Past history of depression is relevant to the client's overall mental health, but in the context of a suspected drug overdose, the time since ingestion takes precedence.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Speaking calmly and assuring the client of safety is a therapeutic intervention for managing severe anxiety and panic. It helps provide a sense of reassurance and safety to the client during an acute anxious episode.
Choice B rationale: Attempting to distract the client can be helpful in some situations, but in severe anxiety, the focus should initially be on providing a sense of safety and addressing immediate distress.
Choice C rationale: Helping the client identify thoughts is more appropriate during less acute moments or in the context of cognitive-behavioral therapy. In severe anxiety, the immediate focus is on providing support and reassurance.
Choice D rationale: Exploring past behaviors may be part of a comprehensive assessment but is not the first priority during an acute episode of severe anxiety.
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