The nurse is teaching a client about the initiation of a prescribed abstinence therapy using disulfiram. Which information should the client provide to acknowledge understanding?

A. Completely abstain from heroin or cocaine use: Disulfiram is specific for alcohol abstinence and does not prevent the effects of heroin, cocaine, or other substances. Avoiding these substances is unrelated to the medication’s intended mechanism. B. Admit to others that he is a substance abuser: While social support can aid recovery, this action does not demonstrate understanding of disulfiram therapy or its administration requirements. It is a behavioral strategy rather than a medication-specific instruction. C. Attend monthly meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous: Participation in support groups is beneficial for long-term sobriety but does not indicate comprehension of the pharmacologic precautions necessary when initiating disulfiram. D. Remain alcohol free for 12 hours prior to the first dose: Disulfiram inhibits the metabolism of alcohol, causing a severe reaction if alcohol is present. Ensuring abstinence for at least 12 hours before the initial dose prevents potentially dangerous reactions, demonstrating understanding of safe medication initiation.