The nurse should be alert for signs and symptoms of CD or withdrawal in all clients. Which of the following is a characteristic of a chemically dependent person?
A) All chemically dependent people display the usual stereotype.
B) Most chemically dependent people are forthcoming about their addiction.
C) Abusers of one drug may have built up tolerance to related drugs.
D) Up to 25% of clients receiving care for general conditions have underlying CD.
C
Feedback:
The nurse should be alert to cross-dependence; abusers of one drug often have built up tolerance to related drugs as well. (This includes prescription drugs, such as painkillers, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills.) Many chemically dependent people do not fit the usual stereotype and are admitted for non–chemical-related problems. Substance abusers use defense mechanisms regularly. They often convince healthcare professionals that their medical disorder is not related to any form of substance abuse; therefore, the chemical problem goes undetected. Up to 45% of clients who are receiving care for general medical–surgical conditions have underlying substance abuse problems; most of these clients are alcoholics.
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