The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client whose urine drug screen is positive for cocaine. Which behavior is this client likely to exhibit during cocaine withdrawal?
Elevated energy level.
High self-esteem.
Euphoria.
Powerful craving for more.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is Choice d. Powerful craving for more.
Rationale:
Cocaine withdrawal symptoms are primarily psychological and emotional, rather than physical. While some physical symptoms may occur, such as fatigue and muscle aches, the most prominent and concerning aspects of withdrawal are intense cravings for the drug.
Here's a breakdown of the other choices and why they are not as likely:
- Choice a. Elevated energy level: Cocaine is a stimulant, so during withdrawal, a person is more likely to experience decreased energy and fatigue.
- Choice b. High self-esteem: Cocaine use can initially boost self-esteem, but withdrawal often leads to feelings of depression, anxiety, and worthlessness.
- Choice c. Euphoria: Euphoria is one of the main effects of cocaine use, but during withdrawal, the opposite occurs, with individuals experiencing dysphoria, a state of intense negative emotions.
Therefore, the intense craving for more cocaine is the most characteristic behavioral symptom exhibited during cocaine withdrawal. This craving is driven by the brain's adaptation to the drug's presence and the disruption of dopamine and other neurotransmitter systems caused by withdrawal.
Additional Notes:
- The intensity of cocaine withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on several factors, including the severity and duration of cocaine use, individual differences in brain chemistry and genetics, and the presence of co-occurring mental health conditions.
- Seeking professional help for cocaine withdrawal is crucial to manage cravings and other symptoms effectively and increase the chances of successful recovery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B: Thinning of the skin with loss of elasticity.
Choice A rationale:
While a decreased ability to communicate can be a significant challenge in elderly clients, it is not the primary physical characteristic of aging that contributes to the risk of pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers develop due to prolonged pressure on specific areas of the skin, leading to reduced blood flow and tissue damage.
Choice B rationale:
Thinning of the skin with loss of elasticity is a critical physical characteristic of aging that contributes to the risk of pressure ulcers. As the skin becomes thinner and less elastic with age, it becomes more susceptible to injury from pressure and shear forces, increasing the likelihood of developing pressure ulcers.
Choice C rationale:
A 16 percent increase in overall body fat does not directly contribute to the risk of pressure ulcers. While changes in body composition occur with aging, the primary risk factors for pressure ulcers are related to skin integrity and mobility, not body fat percentage.
Choice D rationale:
Calcium loss in the bones (osteoporosis) is not the main contributing factor to pressure ulcers. Osteoporosis primarily affects bone density and strength but does not directly influence the development of pressure ulcers.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is the factor that the PN should consider the most likely to increase the client's risk for falls because it can cause orthostatic hypotension, dizziness, or fainting, especially when the client changes position or gets up from bed or a chair. The PN should monitor the client's blood pressure and pulse before and after administering the medication and assist the client with ambulation and transfers.
A. An ankle ulcer that is healing slowly is not a major risk factor for falls and may not affect the client's mobility or balance.
B. History of alcohol abuse and cigarette smoking is not a major risk factor for falls unless the client is currently intoxicated or has a chronic lung disease that impairs oxygenation or cognition.
C. Recent weight gain of twenty pounds is not a major risk factor for falls unless it causes joint pain, edema, or difficulty moving.
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