A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted to the emergency department with a blood alcohol content of 0.15 mg/dL. Which of the following conclusions should the nurse make about the client's blood alcohol content?

A. A single blood alcohol content (BAC) reading does not automatically indicate a substance use disorder. Diagnosis of a substance use disorder requires a pattern of behavior over time, including impaired control, social or occupational impairment, and continued use despite consequences, not a single episode of intoxication. B. A BAC of 0.15 mg/dL indicates intoxication sufficient to cause acute cognitive impairment, including impaired judgment, reduced coordination, slowed reaction time, and possible emotional lability. This level is above the legal driving limit in most countries (commonly 0.08 mg/dL), meaning the client is experiencing immediate effects of alcohol on the central nervous system. C. While the client may need follow-up evaluation, a single BAC reading does not automatically indicate the need for inpatient treatment. Treatment decisions depend on the client’s overall drinking history, risk factors, and clinical presentation, not just the acute BAC. D. A single elevated BAC does not provide information about the client’s long-term drinking patterns. Chronic heavy drinking is diagnosed based on history, laboratory findings, and behavioral patterns over weeks to months, not an isolated blood alcohol measurement.