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A nurse is assisting with the care of a client.

Exhibits

Drag 1 condition and 1 finding to fill in each blank in the following sentence.

The client likely suffered from 

as evidenced by
Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"D"}

Rationale:

  • Opioid intoxication. The client was found unresponsive with a needle in the left antecubital space, suggesting recent intravenous drug use. The administration of naloxone, an opioid antagonist, further supports opioid intoxication as the likely condition. Additionally, the client presents with decreased level of consciousness, respiratory depression (respiratory rate of 10/min), and decreased bowel sounds, all of which are classic signs of opioid intoxication.
  • Pupil characteristics
    The client’s pupils are miotic (constricted), which is a hallmark sign of opioid intoxication due to the drug’s effect on the parasympathetic nervous system. Opioids, particularly heroin and prescription narcotics, cause pinpoint pupils, which can help differentiate opioid intoxication from other conditions that may cause altered mental status.

Rationale for Incorrect Options:

  • Opioid withdrawal is characterized by symptoms such as agitation, dilated pupils, diarrhea, and tachycardia, none of which are present in this client. Instead, the client exhibits signs of central nervous system depression rather than hyperactivity, making withdrawal unlikely.
  • Hallucinogen intoxication typically presents with hallucinations, paranoia, agitation, and altered sensory perception. The client’s presentation does not include these findings, making hallucinogen intoxication an unlikely cause.
  • Alcohol intoxication is associated with slurred speech, ataxia, and confusion, but the client’s history indicates only one beer was consumed, which is not enough to cause such profound central nervous system depression. The presence of a needle and response to naloxone further support opioid intoxication rather than alcohol intoxication.
  • Alcohol withdrawal presents with symptoms such as tremors, tachycardia, hypertension, and agitation. The client is instead experiencing respiratory depression and sedation, which are inconsistent with alcohol withdrawal.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale. The Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) is a validated tool specifically designed to assess and identify tardive dyskinesia in clients taking antipsychotic medications. The AIMS evaluates the presence, frequency, and severity of involuntary movements, providing a structured approach for monitoring and documenting these symptoms over time.
B. Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) is utilized to assess a range of psychiatric symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and psychosis. However, it does not specifically address the assessment of abnormal involuntary movements associated with tardive dyskinesia. Therefore, while it is useful for general psychiatric evaluation, it is not appropriate for identifying tardive dyskinesia.
C. Patient Health Questionnaire-9. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) is a widely used screening tool for assessing the severity of depression. It focuses on mood-related symptoms and does not evaluate movement disorders or side effects of antipsychotic medications. As such, it is not relevant for identifying tardive dyskinesia.
D. Mental Status Examination. The Mental Status Examination (MSE) provides a comprehensive assessment of a client’s cognitive and emotional state, covering areas such as appearance, behavior, thought processes, and mood. While the MSE is valuable for overall psychiatric evaluation, it does not specifically assess for tardive dyskinesia or abnormal involuntary movements, making it unsuitable for this purpose.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. The client's extremity should be elevated after the cast is applied. Elevating the extremity above heart level for the first 24 to 48 hours reduces swelling and prevents complications such as compartment syndrome. Ice packs can also be applied to minimize edema.
B. The client should keep the cast covered until it is dry. Covering a wet plaster cast can trap moisture and delay drying, increasing the risk of weakening the cast and skin irritation. Plaster casts should be left uncovered to allow proper air drying.
C. The client can shower with the cast after 24 hr. Plaster casts are not waterproof and should be kept dry at all times. If exposed to water, they can lose their shape and strength, potentially leading to improper healing. A plastic covering should be used when bathing.
D. The client should use a hair dryer on a warm setting to relieve itching inside the cast. Direct heat can weaken the plaster and cause burns. Instead, clients should use a cool hair dryer setting or tap lightly on the cast to manage itching without compromising its integrity.

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