What finding may be included in the assessment of a client with a history of cocaine abuse?

What finding may be included in the assessment of a client with a history of cocaine abuse?

• A. Glossitis
• B. Pharyngitis
• C. Bilateral ear infections
• D. Perforated nasal septum

Answer: (D)

A perforated nasal septum is a significant finding that may be included in the assessment of a client with a history of cocaine abuse. Cocaine is commonly abused through nasal inhalation, which can lead to significant damage in the nasal passages over time. The chemical irritants and the physical trauma of snorting cocaine can cause inflammation and disruption of the nasal mucosa. This can result in the degradation of the septal cartilage and ultimately lead to a perforation. When assessing a client with a history of cocaine abuse, healthcare providers should specifically look for signs such as nasal crusting, frequent nosebleeds, and visible perforation of the septum. This finding not only signifies chronic use but also raises concerns about potential complications, such as increased risk of infections or nasal deformities. Other findings, while possible in various substance use contexts or associated conditions, are less directly linked to cocaine abuse when considering the primary route of administration and the specific effects on nasal anatomy.

A perforated nasal septum is a significant finding that may be included in the assessment of a client with a history of cocaine abuse. Cocaine is commonly abused through nasal inhalation, which can lead to significant damage in the nasal passages over time. The chemical irritants and the physical trauma of snorting cocaine can cause inflammation and disruption of the nasal mucosa. This can result in the degradation of the septal cartilage and ultimately lead to a perforation.

When assessing a client with a history of cocaine abuse, healthcare providers should specifically look for signs such as nasal crusting, frequent nosebleeds, and visible perforation of the septum. This finding not only signifies chronic use but also raises concerns about potential complications, such as increased risk of infections or nasal deformities.

Other findings, while possible in various substance use contexts or associated conditions, are less directly linked to cocaine abuse when considering the primary route of administration and the specific effects on nasal anatomy.