What should a nurse prioritize when a client exhibits signs of withdrawal?

What should a nurse prioritize when a client exhibits signs of withdrawal?

• A. Encouraging physical exercises.
• B. Ensuring an environment that promotes safety.
• C. Discussing future care plans.
• D. Providing information on gradual drug cessation.

Answer: (B)

When a client exhibits signs of withdrawal, the highest priority for a nurse is to ensure an environment that promotes safety. Withdrawal symptoms can lead to various physical and psychological complications, and clients may experience agitation, confusion, seizures, or other severe reactions that could endanger their well-being. A safe environment minimizes risks of injury or self-harm and provides the necessary support as the client navigates this challenging period. While encouraging physical exercises might be beneficial for long-term recovery and improving overall health, it is not a priority during acute withdrawal when the client might be unstable. Similarly, discussing future care plans is essential for ongoing treatment but should occur once the immediate safety needs are met. Providing information on gradual drug cessation is relevant and important in the context of substance use treatment, but the immediate focus during withdrawal should be on the client's safety and stabilization. Prioritizing safety helps set the foundation for further interventions and discussions related to the client's recovery.

When a client exhibits signs of withdrawal, the highest priority for a nurse is to ensure an environment that promotes safety. Withdrawal symptoms can lead to various physical and psychological complications, and clients may experience agitation, confusion, seizures, or other severe reactions that could endanger their well-being. A safe environment minimizes risks of injury or self-harm and provides the necessary support as the client navigates this challenging period.

While encouraging physical exercises might be beneficial for long-term recovery and improving overall health, it is not a priority during acute withdrawal when the client might be unstable. Similarly, discussing future care plans is essential for ongoing treatment but should occur once the immediate safety needs are met. Providing information on gradual drug cessation is relevant and important in the context of substance use treatment, but the immediate focus during withdrawal should be on the client's safety and stabilization. Prioritizing safety helps set the foundation for further interventions and discussions related to the client's recovery.