A nurse is caring for a client who has alcohol use disorder and is experiencing acute withdrawal. Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer first?

A. Determine the client's degree of physical dependence:
This action is important but usually comes after the initial assessment and documentation. Assessing the degree of physical dependence involves evaluating the client's withdrawal symptoms, tolerance, and other physical health parameters. It helps in planning the appropriate level of care, such as detoxification if needed.

B. Discuss the treatment plan with the client:
While discussing the treatment plan is crucial, it's typically done after gathering essential information about the client's alcohol use, medical history, and current condition. The treatment plan is tailored based on the gathered data, which includes documenting the client's alcohol use.

C. Document the client's alcohol use in the medical record:
This is the first step because it provides a formal record of the client's alcohol use history, including patterns and any associated complications. Documenting this information helps in comprehensive care planning and ensures that all healthcare providers involved in the client's treatment have accurate and up-to-date information.

D. Initiate a referral for treatment for alcohol use disorder:
Referrals are essential, but they usually follow the initial assessment and documentation. The referral process involves connecting the client with appropriate resources, such as addiction specialists, counselors, or support groups, based on the documented information and the client's needs.

A. Reaction Formation:
Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where an individual expresses feelings or behaviors that are the opposite of their true feelings or impulses. For example, someone who harbors unconscious aggressive feelings might display exaggerated friendliness and kindness. In the given scenario, the behavior of the newly licensed nurse is not contradictory to their true feelings; they are imitating the charge nurse willingly.

B. Suppression:
Suppression is a conscious effort to push down or hide certain thoughts or feelings. Unlike repression (which is unconscious), suppression involves a deliberate choice not to think about or dwell on certain emotions or thoughts. In the scenario, the behavior of the newly licensed nurse is not an example of suppression because they are not consciously trying to hide their actions.

C. Identification:
Identification is a defense mechanism where an individual unconsciously models their behavior, feelings, or attitudes after those of someone else, especially someone they perceive as powerful or significant. In this scenario, the newly licensed nurse is imitating the behaviors of the charge nurse, which is an example of identification.

D. Compensation:
Compensation is a defense mechanism where an individual consciously or unconsciously covers up weaknesses, frustrations, or feelings of inadequacy by emphasizing strengths or seeking to excel in other areas. It involves making up for a perceived lack by putting extra effort into another aspect of life. The scenario does not describe the newly licensed nurse compensating for any perceived weakness; they are simply imitating the charge nurse's behavior.