Question

A male client with a long history of alcoholism is admitted because of mild confusion and fine motor tremors. He reports that he quit drinking alcohol and stopped smoking cigarettes one month ago after his brother died of lung cancer. Which intervention is most important for the nurses to include in the client's plan of care?

Answer 1

The most important intervention for nurses is to monitor the client for alcohol withdrawal symptoms and manage them under medical supervision. Since withdrawal can be life-threatening, especially in long-term alcoholics, meticulous monitoring and appropriate medical interventions are necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important intervention for nurses to include in the client's plan of care would be to monitor for signs of withdrawal and to manage them appropriately. Since the individual has a long history of alcoholism and has recently quit, he is at risk for serious withdrawal symptoms that can be life-threatening. Medical supervision is crucial in this scenario as withdrawal from substances like alcohol can be a high-risk process. The symptoms the client is exhibiting, such as mild confusion and fine motor tremors, could potentially escalate to more severe conditions such as seizures or delirium tremens.

Careful monitoring for changes in vital signs, mental status, and the progression of withdrawal symptoms is necessary. Additionally, the healthcare team should be prepared to administer appropriate medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and manage complications. Supportive care, such as ensuring hydration, nutrition, and rest, as well as psychological support, would also be an integral part of the plan of care.

Quitting smoking is also a positive step in protecting the respiratory system, but it may contribute to the stress of the withdrawal process. The client should be commended for his efforts and provided support to maintain tobacco abstinence.