The nurse is assessing a client who reports using cocaine several times in the past week. Which observations should the nurse expect on assessment?

Choice A rationale:
This option includes various factors but does not directly align with the CAGE questions.

Choice B rationale:
While it mentions liver enzyme and gastrointestinal complaints, it does not specifically address the CAGE questions about efforts to cut down, annoyance with questions, guilt, or using alcohol as an "Eye-opener."

Choice C rationale:
The CAGE questionnaire is designed to assess for alcohol misuse or dependency. The responses in choice C ("Efforts to cut down," "annoyance with questions," "guilt," and "drinking as an 'Eye-opener'") are the key elements of the CAGE questionnaire that indicate potential issues with alcohol use. These responses should be explored further to assess the client's relationship with alcohol and the impact it may have on their life.

Choice D rationale:
This option mentions minimizing drinking and missing family events but does not cover all the key elements of the CAGE questionnaire.

Choice A rationale:
Cocaine is a stimulant and typically leads to increased heart rate (tachycardia) and respiratory rate (tachypnea). Bradycardia (slow heart rate) and bradypnea (slow respiratory rate) would be atypical findings with cocaine use.

Choice B rationale:
Cocaine is a stimulant drug that typically produces effects such as increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, stimulation, euphoria, and dilated pupils. These physiological and psychological effects are common when someone has used cocaine.

Choice C rationale:
While cocaine use can cause hallucinations and paranoia during intoxication or withdrawal, these symptoms are not typically the primary manifestations. The most common initial effects are stimulation and increased alertness.
Hallucinations and delusions may occur with substance use, but they are not the most expected or specific findings for cocaine use.

Choice D rationale:
Cocaine use is associated with increased energy, euphoria, and heightened arousal. Lethargy and depression are more likely during the comedown phase or withdrawal from cocaine, rather than immediately after use.