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Special Considerations in Patient Assessment and Documentation
Special Considerations in Patient Assessment and Documentation ( 6 Questions)
A nurse is assessing a client who has a history of substance abuse.
Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider immediately?
This is a common finding in clients who abuse stimulants, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, but it is not an emergency.
This is a common finding in clients who abuse depressants, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines, but it is not an emergency.
This is a common finding in clients who abuse stimulants, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, but it is not an emergency.
Respiratory depression is a life-threatening complication of substance abuse, especially opioid overdose, that requires immediate intervention. The nurse should report this finding to the provider and prepare to administer naloxone, an opioid antagonist, as prescribed.
Respiratory depression
Rationale: Respiratory depression is a life-threatening complication of substance abuse, especially opioid overdose, that requires immediate intervention. The nurse should report this finding to the provider and prepare to administer naloxone, an opioid antagonist, as prescribed.
Incorrect options:
A) Dilated pupils - This is a common finding in clients who abuse stimulants, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, but it is not an emergency.
B) Slurred speech - This is a common finding in clients who abuse depressants, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines, but it is not an emergency.
C) Agitation and restlessness - This is a common finding in clients who abuse stimulants, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, but it is not an emergency.