A nurse is caring for a client who has been brought into an emergency department of a large hospital. The client's family state that the client "took some kind of drugs." The client is dizzy, has recently vomited, and is experiencing paranoia, yelling, "Stay away from me! You are going to kill me!" The client alternates yelling with mumbling and gesturing. Their eyes are darting back and forth as they are talking to the wall. The nurse should suspect the client has used which of the following substances?

D. The client's symptoms, including paranoia, perceptual disturbances (such as seeing things that aren't there), erratic behavior, and disorientation, are consistent with the effects of hallucinogens. Hallucinogens are a class of drugs that alter perception, mood, and cognitive processes.

A. Anabolic steroids are synthetic variations of the male sex hormone testosterone. They are primarily used to promote muscle growth and enhance athletic performance.

B Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription pain relievers, such as oxycodone and morphine, as well as illegal drugs like heroin.

C. Stimulants, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can cause symptoms such as paranoia, agitation, and hallucinations, particularly at high doses or with chronic use. However, the client's symptoms of darting eyes, paranoia, yelling, mumbling, and gesturing are more suggestive of hallucinogen use rather than stimulant use.