A hospitalized, alcohol-dependent patient believes spiders are ...

[erika]

A hospitalized, alcohol-dependent patient believes spiders are spinning entrapping webs in the room. The patient is fearful, agitated, and diaphoretic. Which nursing intervention is indicated?
 
  a. Check the patient every 15 minutes.
  b. One-on-one supervision.
  c. Keep the room dimly lit.
  d. Force fluids.

Question 2

Clients who are taking lithium must monitor their water and salt intake because
 
  1. lithium competes with water in the body.
  2. large amounts of water concentrate lithium in the blood.
  3. lithium is excreted by the kidneys more rapidly than sodium.
  4. sodium is excreted by the kidneys more rapidly than lithium.

[lorealeza]

Answer to Question 1

B
One-on-one supervision is necessary to promote physical safety until sedation reduces the patient's feelings of terror. Checks every 15 minutes would not be sufficient to provide for safety. A dimly lit room promotes illusions. Excessive fluid intake can cause overhydration, because fluid retention normally occurs when blood alcohol levels fall.

Answer to Question 2

3
The kidneys excrete lithium more rapidly than sodium.