A nurse is assessing a client who is experiencing acute amphetamine toxicity. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Tachycardia
Headache
Increased appetite
Pupil constriction
The Correct Answer is A
A. Tachycardia: Amphetamines are central nervous system stimulants that increase sympathetic nervous system activity. Tachycardia is a common manifestation of acute toxicity, along with hypertension, hyperthermia, and agitation. Monitoring cardiovascular status is essential to prevent complications.
B. Headache: While headaches can occur with amphetamine use, they are not a primary or consistent finding in acute toxicity. More prominent signs are cardiovascular and neurological stimulation rather than mild symptoms like headache.
C. Increased appetite: Amphetamines typically suppress appetite rather than increase it. Clients experiencing acute toxicity are more likely to have decreased hunger due to stimulant effects on the hypothalamus.
D. Pupil constriction: Amphetamines usually cause mydriasis (pupil dilation) due to sympathetic stimulation. Pupil constriction is more characteristic of opioid toxicity rather than amphetamine toxicity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Assess for bladder distention: A full bladder can prevent the uterus from contracting effectively, leading to a boggy fundus and increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Assessing and addressing bladder distention is the priority because it directly impacts uterine tone and hemorrhage prevention.
B. Apply supplemental oxygen via nonrebreather mask: Oxygen may be necessary if the client shows signs of hypoxia or shock, but it does not address the primary cause of a boggy uterus. The priority is to correct the underlying issue affecting uterine contraction.
C. Administer intramuscular methylergonovine: Methylergonovine is used to promote uterine contraction, but pharmacologic intervention should follow initial assessment to identify reversible causes such as bladder distention. Administering medication without assessment could overlook a correctable mechanical issue.
D. Analyze coagulation studies: Coagulation studies are important if bleeding persists or coagulopathy is suspected, but they are not the immediate priority in a client with a boggy fundus shortly after birth. Immediate interventions to promote uterine contraction take precedence.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Discuss the client's strengths and weaknesses with the client: Exploring strengths can be part of long‑term therapeutic support, but it does not address the immediate concern of a possible suicidal statement. Before engaging in broader discussions, the nurse must first determine the meaning and seriousness of the client’s words.
B. Ask the client to clarify what they mean: Asking the client to clarify their statement is the priority because it directly assesses the risk of self‑harm. This step helps the nurse determine whether the client has suicidal ideation, intent, or a plan. Clear assessment of safety concerns must occur before any other supportive or therapeutic interventions.
C. Ask the client if they have been taking their medication as prescribed: Medication adherence is important, but it does not address the urgency of a suicidal comment. Focusing on medications can divert attention from immediate safety needs and delay critical assessment of suicidal risk.
D. Remind the client that it is not the end of life: Offering reassurance without assessing the client’s emotional state can minimize their feelings and discourage further communication. This response may shut down dialogue and does not evaluate the level of risk, which is the most urgent priority.
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