A client with a history of heavy alcohol use is brought to an emergency department (ED) by family members who state that the client has had nothing to drink in the last 48 hours. When the nurse reports to the ED physician, which client symptom should be the nurse's first priority?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

With a history of heavy alcohol use and potential withdrawal, a blood pressure of 180/100 mm Hg is a red flag for potential severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures and delirium tremens. This requires immediate intervention and assessment by the ED physician. Other symptoms should also be addressed, but the priority is to prevent more serious complications.

A Client with a History of Heavy Alcohol Use Is