The nurse in an addictions clinic is working with a patient on ...

[cdr_15]

The nurse in an addictions clinic is working with a patient on priority setting before the patient's discharge from residential treatment. Which goal is a priority at this time?
 
  a. Identifying local self-help groups before being discharged from the program
  b. Stating a plan to never be tempted by illicit substances after discharge
  c. Staying away from all triggers that cause substance abuse
  d. Recognizing personal areas of weakness to grow stronger

Question 2

A male patient states, I'm such a loser. I only had that job for a month. Which outcome criteria will the nurse add to the patient's care plan?
 
  a. The patient will verbalize two life areas in which he functions well.
  b. The patient will find new employment before the next clinic visit.
  c. The patient will confront a former boss about previous work problems.
  d. The patient will identify two reasons why he is considered a bad employee.

[hollysheppard095]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Look for strengths in both the individual and the family, and provide resources and education to turn limitations into strengths, such as local self-help groups. It is not realistic to avoid ALL triggers that can result in addictive behaviors. It is unrealistic to believe that the patient will never be tempted because temptation can arise from multiple sources. On the other hand, an appropriate priority would be to recognize that triggers will arise and that the patient should learn how to handle being confronted in the post-discharge setting. Having a person talk about weaknesses without recognizing a person's strengths could be a trigger to return to an addictive lifestyle, so this would not be the most appropriate priority.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Verbalizing two life areas in which a person functions well is an individualized measurable outcome that is realistic. Confronting a former boss could have physical and emotional repercussions for the patient. If the patient is voicing that he has problems obtaining employment, then putting extra pressure to obtain employment would be detrimental to the patient and does not reflect a supportive and caring nursing outcome. Focusing on the negative of why the patient is considered a bad employee is not as beneficial as focusing on strengths.