A nurse is providing medication teaching about disulfiram for a client who has alcohol use disorder. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. "I should avoid over-the-counter medications that contain alcohol.": Disulfiram causes an unpleasant reaction when alcohol is consumed, even in small amounts. Clients must avoid alcohol-containing products such as certain cough syrups, mouthwashes, and topical solutions to prevent serious adverse effects like flushing, nausea, and hypotension. B. "I will need to get a monthly injection of this medication.": Disulfiram is an oral medication taken daily, not administered via monthly injection. The injectable form is associated with other medications used in substance use disorder treatment, such as naltrexone. C. "My provider wants me to take this medication for 2 weeks before I try to quit drinking.": Disulfiram is intended for clients who have already stopped drinking. It is not used to initiate abstinence but to maintain it by discouraging alcohol use through aversive effects. D. "I will plan to continue taking this medication for at least 5 years.": The duration of disulfiram therapy varies based on the client’s progress and treatment plan. Long-term use beyond 1–2 years is uncommon and typically guided by continued risk of relapse and provider judgment.