In: Nursing
The patient, Jermaine Jones, was brought to the emergency department by his wife Denise 30 minutes ago. She reported that he had been drinking a few beers and took one of her prescription tablets, alprazolam, for anxiety. When she got back an hour later he was having trouble talking clearly and responding to her questions. His wife says that she has been getting increasingly worried about his mental condition over the last few days.
Mr. Jones is a 34-year-old African American male who was diagnosed with depression 2 years ago and was prescribed sertraline 50 mg orally one time daily in the morning. His wife reports that he has been having a difficult time coping with the 1-year anniversary of his father's death. According to his wife he has been taking his medication for depression as prescribed.
Mr. Jones is drowsy, but arousable and oriented to person only. His pupils are equal, round, and reactive to light accommodation, and he's able to move all extremities. His speech is slurred. Vitals signs are: BP: 112/66, HR: 96, RR: 12/min, and SpO2 at 96% on room air. I started a 20-gauge IV in his right forearm at arrival. Normal saline is infusing at 100 mL/hr. I have drawn a blood sample for BMP, CBC, and a serum alcohol level as ordered by Dr. Alvarez. The results should be ready any minute now.
Dr. Alvarez put orders in the patient's chart based on my initial assessments but has yet to see the patient. The patient is due for vital signs and other assessments listed in the chart. Please notify Dr. Alvarez if there are any changes in the patient's condition and after you have evaluated Mr. Jones.
1. List your top 3 nursing diagnosis for this patient
2. A serum alcohol level is ordered. How will you know if it is elevated?
3. What other test do you recommend the dr should order?
Nursing diagnosis
A serum alcohol level is ordered. How will you know if it is elevated?
A blood alcohol test measures the level of Alcohol in the blood. Alcohol, also known as ethanol, is the main ingredient present in the alcoholic drinks
Test need to Recommend
Already ordered for
Nurse should suggest to include