Question

The nurse working with a client in crisis must initially assess for the client's:

A. self-report of feeling depressed.
B. unrealistic report of a crisis-precipitating event.
C. report of a high level of anxiety.
D. admission that he or she is abusing drugs.

Answer 1

The nurse must initially assess potential safety risks, such as drug abuse, due to its serious implications for patient care. Withdrawal symptoms and methods of managing addiction, like prescribing methadone for heroin dependency, are crucial elements in the patient's care plan.

Step-by-step explanation:

The initial assessment of a client in crisis by a nurse must prioritize identifying safety risks, including potential harm to oneself or others. The scenario described in the question highlights the significance of assessing for signs of drug abuse, due to the serious implications it has for both the patient and those they interact with in a healthcare setting. With the instance of a healthcare worker who abused drugs, it's clear that drug abuse can lead to critical safety breaches, such as the potential spread of diseases like HIV.

Regarding physical dependence on psychoactive drugs, withdrawal symptoms can include tremors, pain, seizures, or intense cravings. For example, someone with heroin addiction might be prescribed methadone to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce the likelihood of relapse. Methadone acts on the same opioid receptors as heroin, but it does so in a controlled manner that helps to manage cravings and allows for a more gradual cessation of drug use.

In terms of drug addiction, it is characterized by the compulsive use of substances like psychoactive drugs despite the adverse consequences. Addiction and substance abuse affect the neurotransmitter systems in the brain, influencing behavior and experience. Rehabilitative efforts, like the utilization of methadone in heroin addiction, help in managing withdrawal symptoms and in moving towards recovery.