A client is admitted to the hospital for alcohol intoxication. The family reports that he is a heavy drinker and has been admitted several times for alcohol detoxification. When can the nurse expect to observe the first symptoms of withdrawal?

A. Administer thiamine intramuscular (IM) Administering thiamine is important, especially in
clients with alcohol abuse, to prevent or treat potential Wernicke Korsakoff syndrome. However, the primary intervention when admitting a client is addressing immediate physical and psychological needs, such as personal hygiene.

B. Assist the client with personal hygiene needs This is the primary intervention upon admission.
It addresses the client's immediate physical and psychological wellbeing and helps establish a therapeutic rapport.

C. Place the client on continuous observation While observation may be necessary for safety, it is not the primary intervention in this scenario. Addressing personal hygiene needs takes precedence.

D. Explain milieu therapy Milieu therapy is an important aspect of a comprehensive treatment plan, but it is not the primary intervention upon admission. Immediate physical care and safety are the initial priorities.

A. A schizophrenic episode Schizophrenic episodes are characterized by a complex interplay of symptoms including delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and altered perceptions. While the client is experiencing altered perceptions, the sudden onset and specific description are more indicative of hallucinogen ingestion.

B. Hallucinogen ingestion The client's description of altered perception, feeling outside of their own body, and visual distortions are indicative of hallucinogen ingestion. This class of substances can cause profound alterations in perception, leading to hallucinations and distorted sensory experiences. The slightly elevated vital signs may be a physiological response to the effects of the hallucinogen.

C. Opium intoxication Opium is an opioid and its effects are characterized by sedation, respiratory depression, and miosis (pupil constriction). The client's description of altered perception and feeling outside of their body are not typical of opium intoxication.

D. Cocaine overdose Cocaine is a stimulant and its effects are characterized by increased heart rate, blood pressure, and hyperarousal. The client's description of altered perception and feeling outside of their body are not typical of cocaine overdose.