A nurse in a mental health facility is admitting a client. div id="exhibits">Exhibits Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options. The client is at risk of developing dropdownas evidenced by the client’sdropdown.
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale for correct choices: Alcohol withdrawal syndrome: The client’s BAC of 310 mg/dL indicates severe intoxication. As the alcohol clears from the system, withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, and seizures may occur, requiring close monitoring to prevent complications like delirium tremens. Blood alcohol level of 310 mg/dL: This elevated BAC indicates significant alcohol consumption. As the alcohol is metabolized, the client is at high risk for alcohol withdrawal syndrome and requires close observation to manage withdrawal symptoms as the BAC decreases. Rationale for incorrect choices: Malnutrition: While weight loss and minimal appetite may be concerning, they do not definitively indicate malnutrition. These symptoms are more likely tied to the client’s psychological distress and alcohol use rather than severe nutritional deficiency. Alcohol intoxication: The client’s current state is intoxicated; the primary concern at this stage is managing alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Once the alcohol is metabolized, the focus will shift to preventing withdrawal complications which the client is at risk of. Respiratory rate of 10/min: A respiratory rate of 10/min is on the low side but not dangerously low. This rate may be associated with alcohol intoxication and will require monitoring but is not immediately alarming unless the client shows signs of respiratory distress. Weight loss over the past 3 months and minimal appetite: The weight loss and reduced appetite are concerning but not immediately indicative of malnutrition. These symptoms are likely due to the client’s alcohol use and emotional distress, and further assessment is needed to evaluate nutritional health.