A nurse in a substance use disorder clinic is explaining the alcohol recovery process to a client's family. Which of the following should the nurse identify as the first step toward successful recovery from alcohol use disorder?

A. This statement indicates that the client has abstained from alcohol while on haloperidol decanoate. This is a positive statement and shows compliance with recommendations, as alcohol can interact with medications and affect their effectiveness or cause adverse reactions. There is no immediate concern with this statement.
B. Haloperidol can increase sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). Spending several hours outside gardening in the sun could potentially increase the risk of sunburn or other skin reactions due to photosensitivity. The nurse should address this statement by educating the client about the need to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak sunlight hours.
C. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is generally recommended for clients taking haloperidol, as it can occasionally cause hypotension (low blood pressure) as a side effect. Checking blood pressure once a week is a reasonable frequency, but the nurse should ensure that the client understands the signs and symptoms of hypotension and knows when to seek medical attention if blood pressure readings are abnormal.
D. Chewing sugar-free gum is generally not contraindicated while taking haloperidol. However, if the gum contains caffeine or other stimulants, it could potentially exacerbate certain side effects of the medication, such as tremors or restlessness. The nurse should inquire further about the type of gum being used and educate the client about potential interactions or side effects.

A. Dual diagnosis treatment programs are specifically designed for individuals who have both a mental health disorder (such as ASPD) and a substance use disorder (alcohol dependency in this case). These programs integrate treatment approaches that address both conditions concurrently. They typically involve a combination of medication management, psychotherapy, and support groups tailored to dual diagnosis clients. Encouraging the client to participate in a dual diagnosis treatment group can help address the complex interplay between ASPD and alcohol dependency.
B. Codependency support groups focus on relationships where one person may enable or support dysfunctional behavior in another person. While relevant in certain contexts, codependency support groups may not directly address the primary issues of ASPD and alcohol dependency. Therefore, this option is less appropriate compared to dual diagnosis treatment for this client.
C. Psychodrama is a form of therapy where clients act out real-life situations to explore and gain insights into their feelings, behaviors, and relationships. While psychodrama can be beneficial for emotional expression and role-playing, it may not directly target the core symptoms and challenges of ASPD and alcohol dependency. Therefore, it may not be the most effective intervention for this client compared to dual diagnosis treatment.
D. Crisis intervention focuses on immediate stabilization and support during a mental health crisis or acute episode. While crisis intervention may be necessary at times, it is not a comprehensive treatment approach for ASPD and alcohol dependency. Long-term management and therapeutic interventions, such as dual diagnosis treatment, are typically needed to address these chronic conditions effectively.