When evaluating the effectiveness of an alcohol withdrawal treatment plan for an older adult patient, what outcome would be considered successful?

A. Physical restraints are sometimes used as a last-resort intervention to prevent immediate harm to the client or others, such as in cases of severe agitation or risk of falls. They are intended to be short-term and temporary, with continuous monitoring and frequent reassessment to minimize harm.

B. Restraints do not improve long-term behavior. In fact, overuse can increase agitation, anxiety, and aggression, and can negatively affect trust and the therapeutic relationship.

C. Physical restraints do not address the underlying causes of agitation and do not provide a permanent solution. They may temporarily control behavior but can worsen emotional distress and cognitive symptoms over time.

D. Restraints have no effect on the neurodegenerative process associated with neurocognitive disorders. Cognitive decline continues regardless of restraint use.

A. Nonmaleficence means “do no harm.” By arranging for an aid to sit with the client overnight instead of using physical restraints, the nurse is preventing potential harm that restraints could cause, such as injury, psychological trauma, or loss of dignity. This action exemplifies the ethical obligation to minimize harm while providing care.

B. Beneficence refers to taking actions that actively promote the well-being of the client, such as providing comfort, treatment, or health promotion. While the nurse’s action may also benefit the client, the primary ethical focus here is preventing harm, which aligns more directly with nonmaleficence.

C. Justice involves fairness in the distribution of healthcare resources and treatment. This principle is not the primary consideration in deciding to avoid restraints in this scenario.

D. Autonomy is the client’s right to make decisions about their own care. While respecting autonomy is important, the decision to prevent harm by providing an aid is ethically centered on protecting the client rather than directly honoring choice.