A patient suddenly becomes restless, confused, sweaty, and disoriented after receiving an unknown substance. Which assessment should the nurse prioritize?
Correct answer: B. Check airway, breathing, circulation, and blood glucose
- A. Ask about childhood emotional stress
- B. Check airway, breathing, circulation, and blood glucose
- C. Begin a detailed psychiatric history
- D. Offer privacy and postpone physical assessment
Explanation
Sudden altered mental status after an unknown substance may indicate poisoning or a metabolic emergency, so ABC assessment and glucose testing take priority. A detailed psychiatric history must wait until immediate physiological threats are addressed.
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About Psychiatric Emergencies
Psychiatric emergencies include suicidal behavior, homicide risk, severe agitation, panic, acute psychosis, delirium, overdose, and withdrawal states. Students examine rapid risk assessment, crisis intervention, de-escalation, environmental safety, emergency medication, observation levels, and the immediate priorities that differ from routine psychiatric nursing care.
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40 free Psychiatric Emergencies MCQs from Mental Health Nursing, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
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