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    ATI Remediation Proctored Exam 3 (Mental and Med Surg)

    A nurse is caring for a client who has been brought into an emergency department of a large hospital. The client's family state that the client "took some kind of drugs. The client is dizzy, has recently vomited, and is experiencing paranoia, yelling, "Stay away from me! You are going to kill me!" The client alternates yelling with mumbling and gesturing. Their eyes are darting back and forth as they are talking to the wall. The nurse should suspect the client has used which of the following substances?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Rationale:A. Anabolic steroids are associated with mood swings and aggressive behavior but are less likely to cause the acute symptoms of paranoia, hallucinations, and severe agitation described here.B. Hallucinogens, such as LSD or PCP, can cause intense paranoia, hallucinations, and erratic behavior, as seen in the client’s symptoms. These substances often lead to altered perceptions of reality, including visual and auditory hallucinations.C. Stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamines can cause paranoia and hyperactivity but are less likely to cause the vivid hallucinations described.D. Opioids typically cause drowsiness, respiratory depression, and a sense of euphoria rather than hallucinations and severe agitation.

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