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 D
Explanation
A. Clean the mouthpiece with warm water every 2 weeks. This is incorrect because the mouthpiece should be cleaned with warm water at least once a week, or more often if used frequently, to prevent bacterial growth and contamination.
B. Wait 10 seconds between inhalations. This is incorrect because the recommended time interval between inhalations is 1 minute, not 10 seconds, to allow adequate absorption of the medication and prevent overdose or side effects.
C. Take a quick inhalation when pressing the dispenser. This is incorrect because a quick inhalation can cause poor coordination of hand-mouth movement and result in less medication reaching the lungs. The nurse should instruct the child to take a slow, deep inhalation when pressing the dispenser, hold their breath for 10 seconds, and exhale slowly.
D. Take the medication 15 min before playing sports. This is correct because albuterol is a short-acting bronchodilator that can prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm. The nurse should teach the child to take the medication before engaging in physical activity that can trigger asthma symptoms, such as sports, cold weather, or allergens.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Contacting the facility chaplain to visit with the client may be helpful for some clients who have spiritual needs or concerns, but it does not address the client's expressed desire to go home. The nurse should respect the client's wishes and preferences and not impose their own beliefs or values on them.
B. Explaining the process of leaving the facility against medical advice may discourage the client from pursuing their goal of going home and imply that they are making a wrong decision. The nurse should not judge or coerce the client, but rather provide them with information and support to make an informed choice.
C. Making a referral for social services is the best action for the nurse to take, as it will help the client access resources and services that can facilitate their discharge planning and home care arrangements. The social worker can also assist with financial, legal, or emotional issues that may arise from the terminal diagnosis.
D. Encouraging the client to continue with inpatient care may go against the client's wishes and values, and may cause them more distress and suffering. The nurse should respect the client's autonomy and dignity and support their quality of life goals.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today