When working with a patient suspected of substance abuse,the nurse is particularly interested in determining the cause of a patient's:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Frequently,the symptoms of substance abuse are subtle or atypical,or they mimic symptoms of other age-related illnesses and remain undiagnosed.Patients' presenting symptoms may be erratic changes in affect,mood,or behavior;malnutrition;bladder and bowel incontinence;gait disturbances;and recurring falls,burns,and head trauma.Acute abdominal pain,insomnia,and prescriptions for Librium may or may not be related to substance abuse,but falling is.

When Working with a Patient Suspected of Substance Abuse,the Nurse