A nurse is assessing a client who is withdrawing from alcohol. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply).

Choice A rationale:

An anxiety reaction is the most appropriate explanation for the toddler's behavior of sitting quietly in the corner of the crib, sucking her thumb, and turning away from the nurse. These behaviors suggest that the toddler is experiencing anxiety due to the absence of her mother. Sucking the thumb is a common self-soothing mechanism in young children, and the behavior of turning away from the nurse can be seen as an attempt to cope with the separation.

Choice B rationale:

Resentment toward the mother is less likely in this context, as the toddler's behavior is more indicative of distress and anxiety related to separation from her mother rather than directed resentment.

Choice C rationale:

Developing autonomy is not the primary explanation for these behaviors. While developing autonomy is an important developmental milestone for toddlers, the described behavior is more suggestive of anxiety and coping with separation rather than a deliberate expression of autonomy.

Choice D rationale:

Regression refers to reverting to an earlier developmental stage in response to stress or difficulty. While regression can occur in response to hospitalization and separation from caregivers, the toddler's behavior of sitting quietly and sucking her thumb is better explained by anxiety than by regression to an earlier developmental stage.

The correct answer is D:

Choice A reason: “If a dose is missed, double the next dose of medication.” This statement is incorrect. Doubling up on a dose can lead to an overdose and serious side effects. Patients are advised to take the missed dose as soon as they remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose.

Choice B reason: “This medication may increase your blood pressure.” Alprazolam is known to have a sedative effect, which can lower blood pressure rather than increase it. Therefore, this statement is not typically accurate.

Choice C reason: “Do not eat aged cheeses while taking this medication.” This dietary restriction is associated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are a different class of medications used to treat depression. Alprazolam does not interact with tyramine-rich foods like aged cheeses, so this statement is not applicable.

Choice D reason: “Use a dependable form of contraception while taking this medication.” Alprazolam falls under FDA Pregnancy Category D, which means there is positive evidence of human fetal risk, but the potential benefits may warrant use in pregnant women despite the risks. Therefore, it is important to use reliable contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication.