Naloxone is administered to an adult client following a suicide attempt with an overdose of hydrocodone bitartrate. Within 15 minutes, the client is alert and oriented. In planning nursing care, which intervention has the highest priority at this time?
Determine the client’s reason for attempting suicide.
Obtain the client’s serum hydrocodone/acetaminophen level.
Encourage the client to increase fluid intake.
Observe the client for further narcotic effects.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Determine the client’s reason for attempting suicide: While assessing suicidal intent is important, the immediate priority is ensuring the client's physiological stability. Suicidal ideation can be addressed once the client is medically stable.
B. Obtain the client’s serum hydrocodone/acetaminophen level: This may be ordered, but it is not the highest priority. Clinical observation is more urgent, especially because naloxone has a shorter half-life than many opioids, including hydrocodone.
C. Encourage the client to increase fluid intake: This is not a priority intervention in the immediate post-overdose period and does not address the risk of opioid rebound toxicity.
D. Observe the client for further narcotic effects: Naloxone has a short duration of action (typically 30–90 minutes), whereas hydrocodone has a longer half-life. Once naloxone wears off, respiratory depression and sedation can recur. Continuous monitoring is critical to ensure timely re-administration if opioid effects return.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Conversion disorder involves the manifestation of neurological symptoms without a neurological basis. Sudden blindness with no organic pathology is indicative of a conversion disorder.
B. Complaints of headache and back pain may have organic or psychogenic causes; it does not specifically point to conversion disorder.
C. Extreme anxiety about going outside may be indicative of various anxiety disorders but does not align with the symptoms of a conversion disorder.
D. Complaints of shortness of breath and diaphoresis may have various causes, including medical conditions. It does not specifically indicate a conversion disorder.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Participating in individual and group therapy is important for overall mental health, but the immediate focus is on addressing the self-harming behavior.
B. Demonstrating effective ways to cope with anxiety is the most important outcome to address the client's self-harming behavior and promote healthier coping mechanisms.
C. Taking all antianxiety medications as prescribed is important but may not directly address the client's self-harming behavior.
D. Learning methods of relaxation is valuable, but the most immediate concern is preventing self-harm. The client should demonstrate effective ways to cope with anxiety to reduce the risk of self-injury.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
