A nurse working in a substance abuse clinic is assigned a patient with recurring substance abuse issues. Which strategy is the first priority when providing care to this patient?

Question

1. Administering medication
2. Ordering psychological testing
3. Arranging for inpatient hospital care
4. Assessing the patient's current health status

Answer 1

Answer: 4
Explanation: As with any patient, the nurse begins with assessment of the patient's current health status. Assessment and problem identification are critical to providing care for patients with serious and persistent mental illnesses such as recurring substance abuse. The nurse must first assess the patient's needs and status before administering medication. The nurse does not have the authority to order psychological testing unless the nurse is engaged in advanced practice. The assessment will determine what level of care is indicated.