ATI RN Mental Health Asn Related

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A nurse in an emergency department is caring for a client who is experiencing acute alcohol withdrawal. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

  • A. Implement seizure precautions.
  • B. Insert an IV access site.
  • C. Obtain a blood specimen.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Implement seizure precautions. The priority in caring for a client experiencing acute alcohol withdrawal is to prevent potential life-threatening complications like seizures. Implementing seizure precautions involves ensuring a safe environment, such as padding the bed and removing any harmful objects. This step takes precedence over inserting an IV access site (B) or obtaining a blood specimen (C) because seizures pose an immediate risk to the client's safety. It is crucial to address the most urgent need first to ensure the client's well-being.