The patient is exhibiting some addictive behaviors and has ...

[lbcchick]

The patient is exhibiting some addictive behaviors and has admitted to using illegal drugs. Which patient statements are consistent with addictive behaviors?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. I think even as a child I was much more anxious than my friends.
  2. When I was in the hospital for appendicitis, they told me they had to give me more pain medications than normal because I was still in pain.
  3. Sometimes I steal things from stores just to see if I can get away with it.
  4. I like to play it safe. When my friends were bungee jumping off the bridge, I just watched.
  5. I have always been very slow to anger.

Question 2

The patient states, I think I am actually addicted to nicotine. Which assessment findings are consistent with this type of addiction?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. The blood pressure is 182/86.
  2. The patient states, Sometimes, I feel so nauseated after I smoke cigarettes.
  3. The patient states, I have never been able to stop smoking for more than two weeks at a time because the cravings get so bad.
  4. An apical heart rate is 72 beats per minute.
  5. A respiratory rate is 14 breaths per minute.

[carlsona147]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3

People who are displaying addictive behaviors associated with substance use are more likely to be anxious, have a low tolerance for pain, participate in risky behaviors such as stealing and bungee jumping without regard for social norms or their own safety, and are more likely to become angry than others who are not using substances.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3

Nicotine use results the release of norepinephrine and epinephrine which produces vasoconstriction. Vasoconstriction will increase the patient's blood pressure. Patients who use nicotine will find that it promotes vomiting. Quitting smoking is thought to be more difficult because of dopamine release, which reinforces the craving for more. Due to the effects of the norepinephrine and epinephrine the patient's heart rate and respiratory rate would both be higher than the stated levels.