A nurse in a mental health clinic is attempting to develop a therapeutic relationship with a client. Which of the following should be the appropriate action by the nurse?

Choice A rationale:

The client taking an overdose of the medication is unlikely to be the cause of the symptoms. Disulfiram (Antabuse) is a medication used to treat alcohol dependence by causing adverse effects when alcohol is consumed. However, an overdose would not result in severe nausea and vomiting as described.

Choice B rationale:

Experiencing common side effects of the medication is a possibility, but severe nausea and vomiting are not typical side effects of disulfiram. The medication's primary purpose is to induce unpleasant effects when alcohol is consumed, not to cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms.

Choice C rationale:

Demonstrating an allergic response to the medication could potentially cause various symptoms, but severe nausea and vomiting are not commonly associated with allergies to disulfiram. Allergic reactions often manifest as skin rashes, itching, and respiratory symptoms, which are not described in this scenario.

Choice D rationale:

The correct choice. Disulfiram works by inhibiting alcohol metabolism, leading to the accumulation of acetaldehyde, a toxic substance, when alcohol is consumed. This buildup of acetaldehyde results in unpleasant symptoms like severe nausea, vomiting, headache, and flushing. Since the client has recently started taking disulfiram and reports experiencing severe nausea and vomiting after discontinuing the medication, it is most likely that the client consumed alcohol while taking the medication, triggering the adverse reaction.

The correct answers are choices B and D: "Offer ideas for ways to distract or redirect the client." and "Educate the spouse about the availability of adult care as a respite."

Choice A rationale:

Suggesting a long-term care facility should not be the first action. Early-stage Alzheimer's clients can often remain at home with proper support, and suggesting institutionalization might not be appropriate at this stage.

Choice B rationale:

This is a correct choice. Engaging the client with Alzheimer's in activities that distract or redirect their focus can be helpful. This approach can alleviate the spouse's concerns and provide some relief from exhaustion.

Choice C rationale:

While discussing dementia care options with the spouse is important, it might not directly address the spouse's current exhaustion and feelings of helplessness.

Choice D rationale:

This is a correct choice. Educating the spouse about adult care options for respite can provide much-needed breaks for the caregiver. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be emotionally and physically draining, so respite care can offer temporary relief.

Choice E rationale:

Suggesting anti-anxiety drugs for the spouse is not the best first action. While addressing caregiver stress is important, suggesting medication should come after considering other supportive measures.