Question

Which of the following statements made by a 27-year-old client shows the greatest need for further nursing assessment regarding the potential use of illegal drugs?

1. Whether you wear a helmet or not should be the choice of the motorcyclist.
2. I fractured my hand 3 years ago when I got so mad I hit a wall in my dorm room.
3. I like to drink a bit too much, and I lost my license once for drinking and driving.
4. My father suffered from depression when he lost his job, and he still takes medication for it.

Answer 1

The statement that shows the greatest need for further nursing assessment regarding potential illegal drug use is statement number 3: "I like to drink a bit too much, and I lost my license once for drinking and driving."

Step-by-step explanation:

Statement 3 raises concerns about alcohol misuse and a history of driving under the influence (DUI), indicating potential substance abuse issues. The mention of drinking excessively and losing a license due to drinking and driving demonstrates risky behavior that poses a danger not only to the individual but also to others on the road. It's imperative for a nursing assessment to delve deeper into the extent of alcohol consumption, frequency of drinking, any coexisting drug use, and potential underlying reasons behind the client's excessive drinking behavior.

Alcohol abuse is a serious health concern, and its correlation with illegal drug use can exacerbate risks. Nursing assessments typically involve thorough questioning to gauge the severity of substance abuse, identifying triggers, evaluating mental health status, and assessing the client's readiness for change or seeking help. Understanding the client's history, patterns of behavior, and potential influences, such as familial or environmental factors, is crucial in devising an effective care plan.

Assessments may include validated screening tools like the AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test) to quantify alcohol consumption levels and associated risks. Moreover, exploring the client's motivation, support systems, and willingness to engage in interventions or treatment programs is pivotal for a comprehensive nursing approach aimed at addressing substance abuse issues and promoting overall well-being.

Answer 2

The most concerning statement by the 27-year-old client that necessitates further nursing assessment for illegal drug use is their admission of excessive drinking and a past incident of losing their license due to drinking and driving (option 3 i.e. I like to drink a bit too much, and I lost my license once for drinking and driving).

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement by the 27-year-old client that shows the greatest need for further nursing assessment regarding the potential use of illegal drugs is: "I like to drink a bit too much, and I lost my license once for drinking and driving." This statement implies a pattern of substance abuse, which can be associated with illegal drug use. It also indicates a disregard for personal safety and the safety of others, which could extend to risky behaviors like using illegal drugs.

Moreover, this behavior shows a lack of judgment that may implicate other areas of their life and could potentially be a gateway to the use or abuse of illegal substances. It would be important to assess if their drinking patterns have led to or are associated with the use of other psychoactive substances.

While excessive drinking is not always directly linked to drug abuse, it can be an indicator of a larger problem with substance use. This statement would thoroughly be investigated to determine if there are further signs that point to the use of illegal drugs.

Hence, the answer is option 3 i.e I like to drink a bit too much, and I lost my license once for drinking and driving.