Question

Respiratory depression (When using the urgent vs. non-urgent approach to client care, the nurse should determine that the priority finding is respiratory depression, which can indicate the client is experiencing acetaldehyde syndrome, a life-threatening event.)

a) indicative of improved respiratory function
b) a non-urgent concern
c) suggesting acetaldehyde syndrome
d) reflecting normal breathing patterns

Answer 1

Respiratory depression is a priority finding that suggests impaired function, potentially linked to acetaldehyde syndrome after excessive alcohol intake, and is urgent in nature.

Step-by-step explanation:

When using the urgent vs. non-urgent approach to client care, the nurse should understand that respiratory depression is a serious concern. It is indicative of impaired respiratory function and potentially life-threatening conditions such as acetaldehyde syndrome. This syndrome can occur as a consequence of excessive alcohol consumption, leading to harmful effects on the body, including respiratory depression.

It is thus classified as a priority finding in the clinical setting. Furthermore, the excessive use of central nervous system depressants like alcohol can lead to physical dependence, increasing the risk of respiratory depression and requiring careful medical monitoring.