A patient is thin, tense, and jittery and has dilated pupils. The patient says, "My heart is pounding in my chest. I need help." The patient allows vital signs to be taken but then becomes suspicious and says, "You could be trying to kill me." The patient refuses further examination. Abuse of which substance is most likely?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described, such as being thin, tense, jittery, having dilated pupils, and experiencing paranoia, are consistent with amphetamine abuse. Amphetamines are stimulants that can cause increased heart rate, anxiety, and paranoia.

A Patient Is Thin, Tense, and Jittery and Has Dilated