An adolescent who is a heroin addict is admitted to the unit for detoxification. What intervention is most important for the nurse to initiate during the first 24 hours after admission?
Assess intake and output.
Monitor for wheezing and apnea.
Limit visitors to family members only.
Assign the client to a teen support group.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Assessing intake and output is important for overall monitoring but does not address the specific concerns related to heroin detoxification.
B. Monitoring for wheezing and apnea is crucial during the first 24 hours after admission for heroin detoxification to ensure respiratory stability.
C. Limiting visitors is a general precaution but may not be the most important intervention related to the physiological effects of heroin detoxification.
D. Assigning the client to a teen support group is a valuable intervention for overall support but may not address the immediate physiological concerns of heroin detoxification.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Supporting the client to list small behavioral changes is a person-centered and achievable approach to promote progress.
B. Explaining specific skills needed to prevent a relapse may be overwhelming at this early stage.
C. Providing teaching on symptoms of substance use dependence may not be the most immediate and practical response to the client's expressed desire for positive change.
D. Advising the client to reschedule until committing to recovery is not supportive and may discourage the client's motivation for positive change.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Determine the client’s reason for attempting suicide: While assessing suicidal intent is important, the immediate priority is ensuring the client's physiological stability. Suicidal ideation can be addressed once the client is medically stable.
B. Obtain the client’s serum hydrocodone/acetaminophen level: This may be ordered, but it is not the highest priority. Clinical observation is more urgent, especially because naloxone has a shorter half-life than many opioids, including hydrocodone.
C. Encourage the client to increase fluid intake: This is not a priority intervention in the immediate post-overdose period and does not address the risk of opioid rebound toxicity.
D. Observe the client for further narcotic effects: Naloxone has a short duration of action (typically 30–90 minutes), whereas hydrocodone has a longer half-life. Once naloxone wears off, respiratory depression and sedation can recur. Continuous monitoring is critical to ensure timely re-administration if opioid effects return.
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