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. Verbal de-escalation involves using calm, non-confrontational communication techniques to help calm the client. This can include speaking softly, using non-threatening body language, and actively listening to the client's concerns. It is the first-line intervention for managing escalating behavior because it aims to reduce agitation without the use of physical or chemical restraints.
B. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication that may be prescribed for acute agitation and aggression in some situations. However, obtaining a prescription requires provider authorization and should not be the first intervention unless the client's agitation poses an immediate threat to safety and verbal de- escalation has been ineffective. It is typically used when other interventions have not successfully managed agitation.

C. Physical restraints should only be used as a last resort and in accordance with institutional policies and legal guidelines. Restraints are intended to prevent harm to the client or others when all other methods of de-escalation have failed and there is an imminent risk of harm. Placing a client in restraints without attempting verbal de-escalation first can escalate the situation further.
D. Seclusion is also a restrictive intervention that should be used judiciously and only when necessary to protect the client or others from harm. It involves placing the client in a designated, secure area where they can be monitored closely. Similar to physical restraints, seclusion should be considered only after attempts at verbal de-escalation have been unsuccessful and there is a clear risk of harm.

A. Veracity involves providing accurate and truthful information to the client. By reinforcing information about potential adverse effects of a medication, the nurse ensures that the client is fully informed. This aligns with the principle of veracity because it involves transparency and honesty in discussing the potential risks associated with treatment.
B. Respecting the client's autonomy and right to make decisions about their treatment plan relates more to the ethical principle of autonomy rather than veracity. While respecting autonomy is essential, it doesn't directly address truthfulness or honesty in communication.
C. Encouraging a client to participate in a daily exercise program supports their physical well-being and can be beneficial for their recovery. However, it doesn't specifically relate to the ethical principle of veracity, which focuses on truthful communication.
D. Confidentiality is another ethical principle that pertains to protecting the client's privacy and maintaining confidentiality of their health information. While important, it doesn't directly relate to veracity, which is about honesty and truthfulness in communication with the client.