A client with a history of heavy alcohol use is brought to an emergency department (ED)by family members who state that the client has had nothing to drink in the last 24 hours.Which client symptom should the nurse immediately report to the ED physician?
A)Antecubital bruising
B)Blood pressure of 180/100 mm Hg
C)Mood rating of 2/10 on numeric scale
D)Dehydration

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A blood pressure of 180/100 mm Hg is very high and could be a sign of alcohol withdrawal. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention by the physician. Antecubital bruising may be concerning for IV drug use, but it is not an immediate emergency. A mood rating of 2/10 may indicate depression or anxiety, but it is not urgent. Dehydration is a common complication of alcohol use, but it is not an immediate emergency unless the client is severely dehydrated.

A Client with a History of Heavy Alcohol Use Is