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 D

Explanation

Choice A reason:
This statement reflects hypervigilance and a persistent sense of threat, which are symptoms associated with PTSD. Individuals with PTSD may feel constantly on edge as if danger is always imminent, leading to behaviors such as checking rooms repeatedly.

Choice B reason:
While this statement indicates a traumatic experience, it does not directly suggest symptoms of PTSD. PTSD is characterized by specific symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and avoidance behaviors related to the traumatic event.

Choice C reason:
This statement may be indicative of a distressing combat experience but does not directly align with the symptoms of PTSD. It does not reflect the re-experiencing, avoidance, or arousal symptoms typically seen in PTSD.

Choice D reason:
This statement is a clear example of re-experiencing symptoms, which is a core feature of PTSD. Nightmares about the traumatic event and intrusive, distressing memories are common in individuals with PTSD. The vivid and distressing nature of such dreams can significantly impact an individual's well-being.

A. Lock the doors to the unit and secure windows so they cannot be opened. B. Remove any objects from the client's environment that could be used for self-harm. C. Provide the client with plastic eating utensils for meals. D. Assign a staff member to stay with the client.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason:
Locking the doors and securing windows may prevent an escape attempt, but it does not address immediate risks within the client's environment. It can also make the client feel trapped or punished, which could exacerbate their distress.

Choice B reason:
Removing any objects that could be used for self-harm is a direct intervention that reduces immediate risk. It is a standard safety precaution in managing suicidal clients and helps create a safer environment while further assessments and interventions are planned.

Choice C reason:
Providing plastic eating utensils is a safety measure, but it is not as comprehensive as removing all objects that could be used for self-harm. This action should be part of a broader strategy to ensure safety.

Choice D reason:
Assigning a staff member to stay with the client can provide supervision and prevent an attempt at self-harm. However, it may not be feasible as a long-term solution and does not remove the means for self-harm.

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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

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