The nurse suspects withdrawal in a client. Which sign could suggest that further intervention is needed?

The nurse suspects withdrawal in a client. Which sign could suggest that further intervention is needed?

• A. Improvement in mood.
• B. Increased appetite.
• C. Rapid heartbeat.
• D. Calm demeanor.

Answer: (C)

A rapid heartbeat is a physiological response that can indicate withdrawal from certain substances, particularly stimulants or depressants such as alcohol and benzodiazepines. This increased heart rate, or tachycardia, often signifies that the body is reacting to the absence of the substance it has become dependent on. During withdrawal, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to symptoms such as increased heart rate, heightened blood pressure, and anxiety. In contrast, an improvement in mood and a calm demeanor could suggest that the client is stabilizing or adapting well, which is generally a positive sign in the context of withdrawal management. Similarly, an increased appetite might also indicate recovery as the client begins to feel better physically and emotionally. Therefore, the presence of a rapid heartbeat stands out as a concerning sign that suggests the need for further assessment and intervention to address the withdrawal symptoms effectively.

A rapid heartbeat is a physiological response that can indicate withdrawal from certain substances, particularly stimulants or depressants such as alcohol and benzodiazepines. This increased heart rate, or tachycardia, often signifies that the body is reacting to the absence of the substance it has become dependent on. During withdrawal, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to symptoms such as increased heart rate, heightened blood pressure, and anxiety.

In contrast, an improvement in mood and a calm demeanor could suggest that the client is stabilizing or adapting well, which is generally a positive sign in the context of withdrawal management. Similarly, an increased appetite might also indicate recovery as the client begins to feel better physically and emotionally. Therefore, the presence of a rapid heartbeat stands out as a concerning sign that suggests the need for further assessment and intervention to address the withdrawal symptoms effectively.