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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Methadone (Methadose) is used as opioid replacement therapy to prevent withdrawal symptoms, not primarily to maintain abstinence.
B. Naltrexone (Vivitrol) is an opioid antagonist that helps maintain abstinence in patients with alcohol or opioid dependence by reducing cravings and blocking the euphoric effects of these substances.
C. Disulfiram (Antabuse) is used specifically for alcohol dependence; it causes unpleasant reactions if alcohol is consumed but does not address opioid addiction.
D. Bromocriptine (Parlodel) is used for Parkinson’s disease and certain endocrine disorders; it is not indicated for maintaining abstinence from alcohol or opioids.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Prickly skin sensations may occur with anxiety or substance use, not psychomotor agitation.
B. Slowed verbal responses indicate psychomotor retardation, not agitation.
C. Psychomotor agitation refers to increased, purposeless movement such as pacing, hand-wringing, or fidgeting.
D. Asking to repeat instructions indicates poor concentration, not specifically psychomotor agitation.
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