The practical nurse (PN) is providing care for a client who is ordered nothing by mouth (NPO) after a small bowel resection. The client's nasogastric (NG) tube is connected to low intermitent suction. The client reports dizziness and tingling in digits.

Which assessment finding by the PN should be reported to the healthcare provider?

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 experiencedecreased energy and fatigue.
• Choice b. High self-esteem:Cocaine use can initially boost self-esteem,but withdrawal often leads to feelings ofdepression, anxiety, and worthlessness.
• Choice c. Euphoria:Euphoria is one of the main effects of cocaine use,but during withdrawal,the opposite occurs,with individuals experiencingdysphoria, 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.

Choice A rationale:

While measuring urinary output is an important nursing intervention, it may not be the most critical action for a client with left-sided heart failure. Left-sided heart failure primarily affectspulmonary circulation, and assessing lung sounds is a priority in this situation.

Choice C rationale:

Checking mental acuity is a valid nursing intervention, but it may not be the most crucial action for a client with left-sided heart failure. The priority in this case is to monitor respiratory status and identify any signs of respiratory distress.

Choice D rationale:

Inspecting for sacral edema is also a relevant nursing intervention, as it can indicate fluid retention in heart failure patients. However, auscultating the lung fields takes precedence in this scenario to assess for signs of pulmonary congestion, which is a common complication of left-sided heart failure.