A nurse in a mental health facility is admitting a client. Exhibits Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options. The client is at risk for developing dropdown as evidenced by the client’s dropdown.
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A: Alcohol Withdrawal Reason: Alcohol withdrawal occurs when a person with a history of heavy and prolonged alcohol use suddenly stops or significantly reduces their intake. Symptoms can range from mild (e.g., anxiety, tremors) to severe (e.g., seizures, delirium tremens). Given the client’s long history of alcohol use disorder and recent heavy drinking, they are at high risk for withdrawal symptoms. Choice B: Delirium Tremens Reason: Delirium tremens (DTs) is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that includes symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, and severe autonomic hyperactivity. It typically occurs 48-72 hours after the last drink. While the client is at risk for DTs, it is a specific subset of alcohol withdrawal and not the most immediate concern. Choice C: Seizures Reason: Seizures can occur as a complication of alcohol withdrawal, usually within 24-48 hours after the last drink. The client’s high blood alcohol level and history of heavy drinking increase this risk. However, seizures are a symptom of alcohol withdrawal rather than a separate condition. Choice D: Hallucinations Reason: Hallucinations can occur during alcohol withdrawal, particularly in severe cases like delirium tremens. They are a symptom rather than a standalone condition. The client’s history of heavy drinking and current intoxication make hallucinations a possibility, but they are part of the broader alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Choice E: History of Alcohol Consumption Reason: The client’s long history of alcohol use disorder and recent relapse are critical factors in assessing their risk for alcohol withdrawal. This history indicates a high likelihood of experiencing withdrawal symptoms if alcohol intake is suddenly reduced or stopped. Choice F: Recent Bereavement Reason: Recent bereavement, such as the loss of close family members, can be a significant emotional stressor and may contribute to relapse in individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder. However, bereavement itself is not a direct cause of alcohol withdrawal but rather a contributing factor to the client’s relapse. Choice G: High Blood Alcohol Level Reason: A high blood alcohol level (BAC) indicates recent heavy drinking, which can increase the risk of withdrawal symptoms once the alcohol level begins to drop. The client’s BAC of 310 mg/dL is significantly above the normal range (0 to 50 mg/dL), indicating severe intoxication. Choice H: Unemployment Reason: Unemployment can be a significant stressor and may contribute to the client’s relapse into heavy drinking. However, like bereavement, it is not a direct cause of alcohol withdrawal but rather a contributing factor to the client’s overall situation.