A patient comes to an outpatient appointment obviously intoxicated. The nurse should:
A) explore the patient's reasons for drinking today.
B) arrange admission to an inpatient psychiatric unit.
C) coordinate emergency admission to a detoxification unit.
D) tell the patient, "We cannot see you today because you've been drinking."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

One cannot conduct meaningful therapy with an intoxicated patient. The patient should be taken home to recover and then make another appointment. Hospitalization is not necessary.

A Patient Comes to an Outpatient Appointment Obviously Intoxicated