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?

Correct Answer: D. Report the findings to the charge nurse.

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring the client's temperature hourly may be indicated if the client's condition deteriorates or if there are specific concerns about fever. However, the temperature of 99.8°F (37.66°C) is not significantly elevated and may not be the primary concern in this situation.

Choice B rationale:

Offering the client fluids frequently is a good nursing practice, but it is not the most important intervention in this case. The client's nonproductive cough and increased confusion need to be addressed and reported first.

Choice C rationale:

Providing care to moisten oral mucosa is important for maintaining oral health and preventing dryness and discomfort. However, it may not directly address the client's current symptoms of cough and confusion.

Choice D rationale:

Reporting the findings to the charge nurse is the most crucial intervention. The client's nonproductive cough and increased confusion may be indicative of an underlying issue, such as a respiratory infection or a change in neurological status. The charge nurse can initiate further assessments, notify the healthcare provider, and implement appropriate interventions to address the client's condition promptly. Timely reporting and communication are essential to ensure the client receives appropriate care.

Choice A rationale:

After administering hydrocodone/acetaminophen for pain, the PN should closely monitor the client for signs of respiratory depression, which may manifest as shallow or slow breathing.

Ongoing assessments are crucial because respiratory depression is a potential adverse effect of opioid medications like hydrocodone. If this complication is detected early, appropriate interventions can be implemented to ensure the client's safety.

Choice B rationale:

Assessing the skin daily for areas of ecchymosis or other signs of bleeding is not directly related to the administration of hydrocodone/acetaminophen. While bruising and bleeding are possible side effects of some medications, this assessment is not the priority in this scenario.

Choice C rationale:

Encouraging the client to resume normal activities after medication administration is not appropriate in this situation. Hydrocodone/acetaminophen can cause drowsiness and impairment, so the client should be advised to avoid activities that require alertness or coordination until the effects of the medication are known.

Choice D rationale:

Observing the client for involuntary movements of the lips and tongue is relevant when administering antipsychotic medications, as these movements may be signs of tardive dyskinesia. However, it is not directly related to the use of hydrocodone/acetaminophen. The priority after administering this pain medication is to monitor for respiratory depression, as opioids can affect the respiratory system