A client on the cardiac telemetry unit unexpectedly begins manifesting ventricular fibrillation and the advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) team defibrillates the client, restoring a normal sinus rhythm. Later in the day, a family member questions why the code was called, telling the nurse that the client has a living will. How should the nurse respond?

- A) Knowing the medications the patient takes is crucial for understanding her medical history and any potential interactions with treatments that may be administered.

- B) Understanding the events leading up to the fall can help in assessing the cause and potential injuries sustained, which is important for her current and future treatment plans.

- C) Information about the last meal is important for anesthesia considerations, in case surgery is required, and for understanding the patient's nutritional status.
- D) Knowing if the patient is pregnant is vital as it influences the management of her care and the urgency of certain tests, as well as the avoidance of potential harm to the fetus.
- E) Information about cohabitants can be useful for social support and may also provide additional information about the circumstances leading to the injury.
- F) While insurance status is a practical consideration, it is not clinically relevant to the secondary survey and immediate care of the patient. Therefore, it is not an appropriate question at this stage.

A. Instruct the family about withdrawal symptoms. While educating the family about withdrawal symptoms is important for support and understanding, it is not the best initial action when the
client is experiencing severe agitation and tremors. Safety measures should be prioritized.

B. Initiate seizure precautions. Severe agitation and tremors can be signs of benzodiazepine withdrawal, which may progress to seizures. Initiating seizure precautions, such as ensuring a
safe environment, padding side rails, and having emergency medications and equipment readily available, is the priority to prevent injury.
C. Obtain a serum drug screen. While obtaining a serum drug screen may be necessary to confirm benzodiazepine withdrawal, it is not the immediate action needed to address the client's current symptoms and prevent potential harm.
D. Administer naloxone per PRN protocol. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse opioid overdose and is not indicated for benzodiazepine withdrawal. Administering naloxone would not be appropriate or effective in this situation.