A client who is disoriented and agitated comes to the emergency department after using methamphetamine. Vital signs are blood pressure 162/98, heart rate 142 and irregular, and respirations 32. Which of the following actions is priority for the nurse toimplement?
A)Reorient the client at frequent intervals.
B)Monitor the client's ECG and vital signs.
C)Keep the client in a quiet and darkened room.
D)Obtain a health history including prior drug use.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The priority is to ensure physiological stability given that methamphetamine use can lead to complications such as myocardial infarction. The other actions also are appropriate but are not of as high a priority.

A Client Who Is Disoriented and Agitated Comes to the Emergency