A nurse in a substance abuse clinic is assessing a client who was recently prescribed disulfiram. The patient suddenly stopped taking this medication and is now complaining of severe nausea and vomiting. What should the nurse suspect is likely the cause of the client's distress?
The client is experiencing a common side effect to the medication.
The client consumed alcohol while taking the medication.
The client may have taken an overdose of this medication.
The client is demonstrating an allergic response to this medication.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Disulfiram itself does not usually cause nausea and vomiting unless combined with alcohol.
B. Disulfiram is used as aversion therapy for alcohol dependence. If the client consumes alcohol while on disulfiram, it produces an acetaldehyde reaction causing severe nausea, vomiting, flushing, hypotension, and palpitations.
C. Overdose may cause neurologic or cardiac issues, but the hallmark reaction is linked to alcohol consumption.
D. Allergic reactions would typically involve rash, swelling, or respiratory distress, not severe nausea and vomiting alone.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This is more commonly associated with phencyclidine (PCP) or alcohol intoxication, not cocaine.
B. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that activates the sympathetic nervous system. This results in mydriasis (dilated pupils), increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, hypervigilance, and euphoria.
C. Depression is more likely during cocaine withdrawal, not intoxication.
D. Like depression, hypersomnia is a withdrawal symptom. Intoxication typically causes insomnia and restlessness.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While laboratory tests are important for assessing electrolyte imbalances and liver function, they are not the immediate priority in acute alcohol withdrawal.
B. Acute alcohol withdrawal can rapidly lead to seizures and delirium tremens, which are life-threatening. Patient safety and prevention of injury are the priority.
C. Neurological assessment is important, but first ensuring the client’s safety from potential seizures takes precedence.
D. IV access is necessary for fluid or medication administration, but it follows implementing immediate safety measures.
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