The nurse is caring for a client with alcohol use disorder. Which of the following nursing interventions is appropriate for a client to prevent Korsakoff’s syndrome?
Encouraging the client to consume foods high in vitamin B1.
Implementing strict bed rest to conserve energy.
Restricting fluid intake to prevent water intoxication.
Administering thiamine supplements as prescribed.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason: Encouraging the client to consume foods high in vitamin B1 (thiamine) is beneficial, but it may not be sufficient alone to prevent Korsakoff’s syndrome in individuals with alcohol use disorder. Thiamine is crucial for brain function, and its deficiency can lead to Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. However, due to malabsorption issues common in alcohol use disorder, dietary intake alone might not meet the necessary thiamine levels.
Choice B Reason: Implementing strict bed rest to conserve energy is not directly related to preventing Korsakoff’s syndrome. While rest is important for overall health, it does not address the thiamine deficiency that leads to this condition. Korsakoff’s syndrome is primarily caused by a lack of thiamine, and conserving energy does not mitigate this deficiency.
Choice C Reason: Restricting fluid intake to prevent water intoxication is not relevant to preventing Korsakoff’s syndrome. Water intoxication is a separate issue and does not address the thiamine deficiency that causes Korsakoff’s syndrome. Proper hydration is important, but it does not prevent the neurological damage associated with thiamine deficiency.
Choice D Reason: Administering thiamine supplements as prescribed is the most appropriate intervention to prevent Korsakoff’s syndrome. Thiamine supplementation is crucial for individuals with alcohol use disorder because their bodies often cannot absorb enough thiamine from food alone. Thiamine is essential for brain function, and its deficiency can lead to severe neurological damage. Administering supplements ensures that the client receives an adequate amount of this vital nutrient.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Anchovies
Anchovies are a type of small, oily fish that are often used in various dishes for their strong flavor. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients. However, there is no known interaction between anchovies and disulfiram. Disulfiram specifically interacts with alcohol and alcohol-containing products, causing unpleasant reactions. Therefore, anchovies are not a food item that needs to be avoided while taking disulfiram.
Choice B Reason: Spinach
Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is generally considered a healthy food and does not have any known interactions with disulfiram. Patients taking disulfiram do not need to avoid spinach as it does not contain alcohol or any substances that would cause a reaction with the medication.
Choice C Reason: Grapefruit Juice
Grapefruit juice is known to interact with various medications by affecting the enzymes that metabolize these drugs in the liver. However, there is no specific interaction between grapefruit juice and disulfiram. While grapefruit juice can affect the metabolism of certain medications, it does not cause the same type of reaction that alcohol does when taken with disulfiram. Therefore, it is not necessary for patients on disulfiram to avoid grapefruit juice.
Choice D Reason: Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages are the primary substance that must be avoided while taking disulfiram. Disulfiram works by inhibiting the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is involved in metabolizing alcohol. When alcohol is consumed, acetaldehyde accumulates in the body, leading to unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and flushing. This reaction is intended to deter individuals from drinking alcohol. Therefore, it is crucial for patients taking disulfiram to avoid all forms of alcohol, including alcoholic beverages, to prevent these adverse reactions.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Childhood Depression
Childhood depression is characterized by persistent sadness, irritability, and a lack of interest in activities. While it can lead to behavioral issues, it does not typically include the aggressive and antisocial behaviors described in the scenario. The symptoms of childhood depression include changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and energy levels, but these do not align with the client’s history of running away and abusive behavior towards parents.
Choice B Reason: Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
ODD is marked by a pattern of angry, irritable mood, argumentative, defiant behavior, or vindictiveness. While children with ODD may be defiant and hostile towards authority figures, the behaviors described in the scenario, such as running away and engaging in illegal activities like prostitution, are more severe and align more closely with Conduct Disorder. ODD does not typically involve the violation of societal norms to the extent seen in this case.
Choice C Reason: Conduct Disorder
Conduct Disorder is characterized by a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates the rights of others or major age-appropriate societal norms or rules. This includes aggressive behavior towards people and animals, destruction of property, deceitfulness or theft, and serious violations of rules. The client’s history of running away, abusive behavior towards parents, and involvement in illegal activities like prostitution strongly suggests Conduct Disorder. This diagnosis is supported by the presence of multiple behavioral issues that are severe and pervasive.
Choice D Reason: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
ASD is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. Individuals with ASD may have difficulty with social interactions, exhibit repetitive behaviors, and have restricted interests. While ASD can sometimes be associated with challenging behaviors, it does not typically include the antisocial and aggressive behaviors described in the scenario. The client’s history of running away and abusive behavior is not characteristic of ASD.
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