A patient who used cocaine is extremely restless, has a temperature of 40°C, and is having generalized muscle activity. Which nursing intervention is most urgent?

Correct answer: A. Begin active cooling and obtain emergency medical support

  • A. Begin active cooling and obtain emergency medical support
  • B. Place the patient alone in a dark room without monitoring
  • C. Offer coffee to improve alertness and cooperation
  • D. Encourage vigorous exercise to release excess energy

Explanation

Severe hyperthermia with stimulant toxicity can cause seizures, rhabdomyolysis, kidney injury, and cardiovascular collapse. Active cooling, continuous assessment, and urgent medical treatment are required; isolation without monitoring is unsafe.

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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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