The client is admitted to the inpatient substance abuse unit. She tells the nurse she has been buying "yellow jackets" (pentobarbital, or Nembutal) on the street, but has not had any for a few days

Question

Which plan, by the nurse, is the most appropriate at this time?
1. Prepare to do frequent room searches, as the client's friends will most likely bring drugs in for her.
2. Prepare to manage the depression and suicidal thoughts the client will have.
3. Prepare to manage a withdrawal that will likely be minimal.
4. Prepare to manage a withdrawal that could be life threatening.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Doing room searches is a good idea, but preparing for withdrawal is a higher priority.
Rationale 2: Physical needs have priority over psychological needs, such as depression, in this case.
Rationale 3: Withdrawal from barbiturates will more likely be life threatening, not minimal.
Rationale 4: Barbiturates are central nervous depressant (CNS) drugs. Withdrawal symptoms resemble those of alcohol withdrawal, and can be life threatening.
Global Rationale: Barbiturates are central nervous depressant (CNS) drugs. Withdrawal symptoms resemble those of alcohol withdrawal, and can be life threatening. Doing room searches is a good idea, but preparing for withdrawal is a higher priority. Physical needs have priority over psychological needs, such as depression, in this case. Withdrawal from barbiturates will more likely be life threatening, not minimal.