What should a nurse observe in a client who repeatedly abuses cocaine?

What should a nurse observe in a client who repeatedly abuses cocaine?

• A. Panic attacks
• B. Bipolar cycling
• C. Attention deficits
• D. Expressive aphasia

Answer: (A)

In clients who repeatedly abuse cocaine, one significant observation is the presence of panic attacks. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can lead to a variety of psychological and physical reactions, including increased anxiety and intense feelings of fear or panic. These panic attacks can arise due to the drug's stimulating effects on the central nervous system, which may cause heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and hyperarousal. Additionally, the aftereffects of cocaine use, including withdrawal symptoms and the psychological toll of substance dependence, can further exacerbate anxiety levels and trigger panic attacks in these individuals. Understanding this connection is essential for nurses in order to provide appropriate care and interventions for clients struggling with cocaine use disorder. Recognizing the potential for panic attacks also enables healthcare professionals to plan for supportive measures to keep clients safe and help manage their anxiety effectively.

In clients who repeatedly abuse cocaine, one significant observation is the presence of panic attacks. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can lead to a variety of psychological and physical reactions, including increased anxiety and intense feelings of fear or panic. These panic attacks can arise due to the drug's stimulating effects on the central nervous system, which may cause heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and hyperarousal.

Additionally, the aftereffects of cocaine use, including withdrawal symptoms and the psychological toll of substance dependence, can further exacerbate anxiety levels and trigger panic attacks in these individuals. Understanding this connection is essential for nurses in order to provide appropriate care and interventions for clients struggling with cocaine use disorder. Recognizing the potential for panic attacks also enables healthcare professionals to plan for supportive measures to keep clients safe and help manage their anxiety effectively.