An adolescent client is admitted to the postoperative unit following open reduction of a fractured femur which occurred when the client fell down the stairs at a party. The nurse notices needle marks on the client's arms. Which assessment findings should the nurse document related to suspected narcotic withdrawal?

Choice A reason: Vomiting may occur in narcotic withdrawal, but seizures and loss of consciousness are more characteristic of severe withdrawal from other substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines. Narcotic withdrawal typically presents with agitation, sweating, and gastrointestinal symptoms, not primarily neurological collapse, making this less accurate for documenting suspected opioid withdrawal in this adolescent.Choice B reason: Hypotension and shallow respirations are not typical of narcotic withdrawal; they suggest overdose or other conditions. Dilated pupils occur in withdrawal, but agitation and sweating are more prominent. This combination does not fully capture the autonomic and gastrointestinal symptoms of opioid withdrawal, making it incorrect for documentation.Choice C reason: Agitation, sweating, and abdominal cramps are hallmark signs of narcotic withdrawal, reflecting autonomic hyperactivity and gastrointestinal distress due to opioid cessation. These symptoms align with the clinical presentation of opioid withdrawal in an adolescent with needle marks, supported by addiction medicine evidence, making this the best choice for documentation.Choice D reason: Depression, fatigue, and dizziness may occur in later withdrawal phases but are less specific than agitation, sweating, and cramps, which are acute and prominent in early narcotic withdrawal. These symptoms are too vague to capture the immediate autonomic response, making this incorrect for documenting suspected opioid withdrawal.