A nurse is reviewing the day 5 vital signs.
A nurse is evaluating the client’s response to treatment. Select the 4 findings that indicate the client is progressing with their plan of care.
Vital signs
Movement through the stages of grief
Cognition
Participation in group therapy
Appetite
The client resolves to limit alcohol consumption
Correct Answer : A,B,D,E
Choice A Reason: Vital signs are a critical indicator of a patient’s health status. Normal ranges for vital signs in a resting adult include a body temperature of 97.8°F to 99.1°F (36.5°C to 37.3°C), blood pressure between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg, a pulse rate of 60 to 100 beats per minute, and a respiratory rate of 12 to 18 breaths per minute. The client’s vital signs have stabilized from the initial erratic readings to within normal ranges by hospital day 5, indicating a positive response to the treatment plan.
Choice B Reason: Movement through the stages of grief is essential for emotional recovery, especially in the context of alcohol use disorder where the grief may have triggered the relapse. The stages of grief include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Progress in these stages can be a sign of emotional healing and a successful coping mechanism in the recovery process.
Choice D Reason: Participation in group therapy is a key component of substance use disorder treatment. It provides social support, reduces isolation, and helps develop effective communication and interpersonal skills3. Active participation in group therapy sessions indicates the client’s engagement with the treatment process and their commitment to recovery.
Choice E Reason: Appetite changes are common during recovery from alcohol use disorder. Initially, there may be a loss of appetite due to the effects of alcohol on the gastrointestinal system and overall health. However, as recovery progresses, appetite usually returns, and the individual may even overeat5. An improvement in appetite suggests that the client’s physical health is improving and that they are regaining a normal relationship with food.
Choice C Reason: Cognition refers to the mental processes involved in gaining knowledge and comprehension, including thinking, knowing, remembering, judging, and problem-solving. These are higher-level functions of the brain and encompass language, imagination, perception, and planning. A person’s cognitive ability can be affected by alcohol use disorder, as alcohol can impair cognitive functions and damage brain structures. However, recovery from alcohol abuse can lead to improvements in cognitive functions. Research indicates that most noticeable improvement in cognitive function begins after one year of abstinence from alcohol. Therefore, if the client shows signs of improved cognition, such as better memory, clearer thinking, or improved problem-solving, it would indicate progress in their recovery.
Choice F Reason: The client’s resolve to limit alcohol consumption is a significant indicator of their commitment to long-term recovery. Setting limits on alcohol intake is a crucial step in the process of recovery and can help prevent relapse. For men, moderate drinking is defined as up to two drinks per day and for women, up to one drink per day3. If the client expresses a desire to limit their alcohol consumption to within these guidelines, or better yet, abstains from alcohol completely, it would demonstrate a positive change in behavior and mindset towards their health and recovery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: While attending support group meetings can be beneficial for individuals with borderline personality disorder by providing a sense of community and shared experiences, it is not the immediate priority. Support groups can offer emotional support and coping strategies, but they do not directly address the urgent safety concerns that may arise with this disorder.
Choice B reason: Discussing the use of assertive behavior is an important aspect of therapy for individuals with borderline personality disorder, as it can help them express their needs and feelings in a healthy way. However, this is part of a long-term strategy for improving interpersonal relationships and communication skills, rather than an immediate safety concern.
Choice C reason: Implementing measures to prevent intentional self-inflicted injury is the priority when planning care for a client with borderline personality disorder. Due to the high risk of self-harm and suicidal behaviors associated with this disorder, ensuring the client's safety is the most critical and immediate concern. This may include creating a safe environment, developing a crisis plan, and closely monitoring the client.
Choice D reason: Assisting the client to maintain awareness of their thoughts and feelings is a key component of therapy for borderline personality disorder, as it can help them understand and manage their emotions more effectively. However, while this is important for long-term management, it is not the immediate priority when compared to ensuring the client's safety.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Cautioning the client against feeling angry at the deceased sibling could invalidate the client's natural grieving process. Anger is a common and expected emotion in the stages of grief, and acknowledging it can be therapeutic. It is important for the nurse to provide a safe space for the client to express all emotions related to their loss.
Choice B reason: Recommending more solitary activities might not be beneficial for a client experiencing depression after a significant loss. Social support and engagement in social activities can be crucial for recovery. Isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression. Instead, the nurse should encourage the client to maintain connections with supportive friends and family members.
Choice C reason: Explaining that the duration of grief is highly variable and can last for years is important. Grief does not have a set timeline, and individuals experience it differently. Providing this information can help normalize the client's feelings and reassure them that what they are experiencing is a part of the healing process.
Choice D reason: Encouraging the client to avoid discussing the events surrounding the sibling's death can hinder the grieving process. Open communication about the loss and the associated emotions is essential for healing. The nurse should encourage the client to share their feelings and memories when they feel ready, as this can be a part of the therapeutic process.
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