The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client whose urine drug screen is positive for cocaine. Which behavior is most likely seen in this client?
Elevated energy level
Powerful craving for more
High self-esteem
Euphoria
The Correct Answer is A
- Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug that increases the levels of dopamine in the brain, which is a chemical messenger related to movement, pleasure, and motivation.
- Cocaine's effects appear almost immediately and last for a few minutes to an hour, depending on the method of use. Some of the short-term effects of cocaine include extreme happiness and energy, mental alertness, hypersensitivity to sight, sound, and touch, and irritability.
- An elevated energy level is one of the most common and noticeable effects of cocaine use, as cocaine stimulates the central nervous system and makes the user feel more alert, active, and confident¹². This effect may also lead to increased physical activity, talkativeness, or aggression.
Therefore, option A is the correct answer, while options B, C, and D are incorrect.
Option B is incorrect because a powerful craving for more cocaine is not a behavior that can be observed by others, but rather an internal feeling that the user may experience due to the addictive nature of the drug.
Option C is incorrect because high self-esteem is not a typical effect of cocaine use, as cocaine may cause paranoia or anxiety in some users.
Option D is incorrect because euphoria is not a behavior that can be observed by others, but rather an emotional state that the user may feel due to the increased dopamine levels in the brain

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A is incorrect because documenting client tasks upon completion is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates accuracy and timeliness of documentation.
B is correct because starting a task then determining what supplies are needed is an inappropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that indicates poor planning and organization skills.
C is incorrect because completing a client assessment while infusing an IV antibiotic over 30 min is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates efficient use of time and multitasking ability.
D is incorrect because returning to the nurses' station after completing several tasks in the same location is an appropriate action by the newly licensed nurse that demonstrates effective prioritization and delegation skills.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Urine specific gravity should not be reported by the nurse. While urine specific gravity is an important indicator of hydration status and kidney function, the provided information does not suggest any abnormalities in urinary output or signs of kidney issues. It is not the most critical finding to report in this scenario.
Choice B reason:
Prealbumin should not be reported by the nurse. Prealbumin is a protein used to assess nutritional status, but its significance in this situation is not apparent from the provided data. It may be relevant in other contexts, such as assessing malnutrition, but it does not directly address the current findings.
Choice C reason:
Temperature should not be reported by the nurse. The provided information does not include any data about the client's temperature, and there are no signs of infection mentioned. While temperature is an important vital sign, it is not relevant to the findings presented in this scenario.
Choice D reason
The nurse should report the "hypoactive bowel sounds upon auscultation" to the provider. Hypoactive bowel sounds can be a sign of gastrointestinal (GI) motility issues, which may indicate a potential problem with the client's digestive system. It could be due to various causes such as bowel obstruction, inflammation, or other GI disorders. Reporting this finding to the provider is essential so that appropriate assessments and interventions can be taken to address the client's condition.
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