Substance Use, Withdrawal, And Overdose Care Practice Test

A 52-year-old client with depression and alcohol use disorder is admitted for detoxification after drinking daily for years; last drink was 14 hours ago. The client is tearful and says, “I don’t deserve help,” but denies a current plan to self-harm. Vital signs: HR 110/min, RR 20/min, BP 154/92 mm Hg, T 37.3°C (99.1°F); labs: blood alcohol level 0.00, AST 62 U/L (mildly elevated). Which nursing response best demonstrates therapeutic communication to support psychosocial integrity?

A 39-year-old client with major depressive disorder and alcohol use disorder is admitted for detox and states, “My family would be better off without me.” Vital signs: HR 96/min, BP 132/84 mm Hg, RR 18/min, T 36.9°C (98.4°F); labs: blood alcohol level 0.06%, potassium 3.8 mEq/L. The client reports recent job loss and limited support. Which finding requires IMMEDIATE intervention by the nurse?