A community health nurse visits an elderly person whose spouse died 6 months ago. Two vodka bottles are in the trash. When the nurse asks about alcohol use, this person says, “I get lonely and drink a little to help me forget.” Select the nurse’s most therapeutic intervention.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Teach the person about risks for alcoholism and suggest other coping strategies. This intervention is the most therapeutic because it addresses the underlying issue of using alcohol as a coping mechanism for loneliness and grief. By educating the person about the risks of alcoholism, the nurse can help the individual understand the potential harm of their current coping strategy. Additionally, suggesting alternative coping strategies can provide healthier ways to deal with loneliness and grief, ultimately promoting better overall well-being.
Choice A is incorrect because while assessing drinking and driving is important, it does not directly address the underlying emotional reasons for the alcohol use.
Choice C is incorrect as it focuses on the risks of injury rather than addressing the emotional aspects of the person's drinking behavior.
Choice D is incorrect as it jumps to a specific intervention without first addressing the person's understanding of their alcohol use and providing alternative coping strategies.