The nurse in the Emergency Department (ED) assesses a 17-year-old patient with blue-tinged lips, slowed respirations, and pinpoint pupils. The patient has no response to painful stimuli. Which of the following should be the nurse’s priority action?

d. When the client last had a drink of alcohol

Explanation of Choices

Choice A Reason: If the Client Has a History of Addictive Behaviors

Assessing whether the client has a history of addictive behaviors is important as it provides insight into the client’s overall pattern of substance use and potential risk for relapse. However, while this information is valuable for developing a comprehensive treatment plan, it is not the most immediate concern during the initial admission assessment. The primary focus should be on identifying any immediate risks or needs, such as the potential for alcohol withdrawal.

Choice B Reason: Whether the Client Has Had Previous Rehabilitation for Alcoholism

Knowing whether the client has had previous rehabilitation for alcoholism can help the nurse understand the client’s treatment history and any previous interventions that may have been effective or ineffective. This information is useful for planning ongoing care and support. However, it is not the most critical factor to assess during the initial admission, as it does not directly address the client’s current physical and mental state.

Choice C Reason: Their Previous and Current Coping Skills

Evaluating the client’s previous and current coping skills is essential for understanding how they manage stress and triggers related to their alcoholism. This assessment can inform the development of personalized coping strategies and support mechanisms. Nonetheless, while important for long-term treatment planning, it is not the most urgent factor to assess during the initial admission.

Choice D Reason: When the Client Last Had a Drink of Alcohol

Determining when the client last had a drink of alcohol is the most important factor to assess during the initial admission. This information is crucial for predicting the onset of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, which can begin as early as 4 to 6 hours after the last drink. Early identification of potential withdrawal allows the healthcare team to implement appropriate monitoring and interventions to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications. Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening if not properly managed, making this assessment a top priority.

Choice A Reason: 0.8 mEq/L

The therapeutic range for lithium is typically between 0.6 and 1.2 mEq/L. A level of 0.8 mEq/L falls within this range and is considered normal. Therefore, it is unlikely that a client with this lithium level would present with symptoms such as mental confusion, frequent urination, and coarse tremors. These symptoms are more indicative of lithium toxicity, which occurs at higher levels.

Choice B Reason: 2.3 mEq/L

A lithium level of 2.3 mEq/L is significantly above the therapeutic range and indicates lithium toxicity. Symptoms of lithium toxicity include mental confusion, frequent urination, and coarse tremors, which match the client’s presentation. Severe toxicity can occur at levels above 2.0 mEq/L and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Therefore, this is the most likely lithium level for the client described.

Choice C Reason: 1.8 mEq/L

A lithium level of 1.8 mEq/L is above the therapeutic range but below the level typically associated with severe toxicity. While some symptoms of toxicity might appear at this level, they are generally less severe than those described in the scenario. The client’s symptoms suggest a more severe level of toxicity, making this choice less likely.

Choice D Reason: 1.2 mEq/L

A lithium level of 1.2 mEq/L is at the upper limit of the therapeutic range. While it is possible for some mild side effects to occur at this level, the severe symptoms described (mental confusion, frequent urination, and coarse tremors) are more indicative of a higher, toxic level of lithium. Therefore, this choice is also less likely.