The nurse is caring for a client who has a history of alcohol use disorder and is experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Which of the following should be the priority action by the nurse?

Support the client's attempt to rebuild damaged interpersonal relationships.

Teach the client about the effects of alcohol dependence and the need for rehabilitation.

Teach the client alternative strategies for managing anxiety.

Prepare to administer Ativan as ordered.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A reason:
Supporting the client's attempt to rebuild damaged interpersonal relationships is an important long-term goal in the recovery process. However, it is not the immediate priority when a client is experiencing acute withdrawal symptoms, which can be life-threatening.

Choice B reason:
Educating the client about the effects of alcohol dependence and the need for rehabilitation is crucial for long-term recovery and preventing relapse. Nevertheless, during acute withdrawal, the priority is to manage the physical and psychological symptoms safely.

Choice C reason:
Teaching the client alternative strategies for managing anxiety is a valuable part of therapy and helps in long-term coping. However, during acute withdrawal, the client may not be able to learn or apply these strategies effectively due to the severity of their symptoms.

Choice D reason:
Preparing to administer Ativan as ordered is the priority action. Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine commonly used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It helps to prevent seizures, reduce agitation, and manage other withdrawal symptoms. During the acute phase of alcohol withdrawal, maintaining physiological stability and ensuring the client's safety are the primary concerns.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason:
This statement is accurate and reflects effective teaching. Bupropion, like many antidepressants, can take several weeks to reach its full therapeutic effect. Informing patients about this delay is important to set realistic expectations and to encourage adherence to the medication regimen.

Choice B reason:
This statement is not entirely accurate. While moderate alcohol consumption may be permissible for some patients taking bupropion, it is generally advised to avoid or limit alcohol intake due to the risk of seizures and other side effects. Alcohol can also worsen depression symptoms and interact with the medication.

Choice C reason:
This statement is incorrect. Bupropion does not typically cause bradycardia (slow heartbeat). Instead, it can cause tachycardia (fast heartbeat) as a side effect. Patients should be informed about the potential cardiovascular effects of bupropion, including an increased heart rate.

Choice D reason:
This statement is incorrect. Increased salivation and drooling are not common side effects of bupropion. The medication is more commonly associated with dry mouth. Effective teaching would include informing the patient about the more likely side effects, such as dry mouth, insomnia, and headaches.

A. Risk for aspiration related to impaired gag reflex. B. Risk for injury related to impaired coordination and judgment. C. Impaired liver function related to alcohol toxicity. D. Risk for falls related to dizziness and unsteady gait. E. Risk for infection related to impaired immune function.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
Aspiration is a significant risk for clients with acute alcohol intoxication due to an impaired gag reflex. Alcohol can depress the central nervous system, leading to a decreased level of consciousness and a diminished gag reflex, which increases the risk of aspiration of gastric contents into the lungs.

Choice B Reason:
Impaired coordination and judgment are common in acute alcohol intoxication, increasing the risk of injury. Alcohol affects the cerebellum, the part of the brain that regulates coordination and balance, as well as the frontal lobes, which are responsible for judgment and decision-making.

Choice C Reason:
Alcohol is metabolized by the liver, and excessive alcohol intake can lead to alcohol toxicity and liver impairment. Acute alcohol intoxication can cause hepatic steatosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and even acute liver failure in severe cases.

Choice D Reason:
Dizziness and an unsteady gait are direct effects of alcohol's impact on the vestibular system and the brain's ability to process spatial information, leading to an increased risk of falls.

Choice E Reason:
Alcohol intoxication can impair immune function, making the client more susceptible to infections. Alcohol disrupts immune pathways in complex ways, which can impair the body's ability to defend against infections

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The nurse is caring for a client who has a history of alcohol use disorder and is experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Which of the following should be the priority action by the nurse?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is evaluating teaching for a client diagnosed with depression who is prescribed bupropion (Wellbutrin). Which of the following statements made by the client indicates that the teaching was effective?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]

Explanation

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