How should a nurse intervene when a patient shows signs of intoxication?

• A. Suggest the patient take a walk outside
• B. Ensure patient safety and provide supportive care
• C. Administer alcohol to counteract effects
• D. Contact family members to come pick up the patient

Answer: (B)

Ensuring patient safety and providing supportive care is essential when a patient shows signs of intoxication. Intoxication can impair judgment, coordination, and consciousness, which increases the risk of injury or harm to the patient. By prioritizing safety, a nurse can help prevent potential accidents, falls, or dangerous situations that could arise due to the patient's impaired state.

Providing supportive care also involves monitoring vital signs, keeping the patient in a calm environment, and offering reassurance as needed. If the patient becomes more severely intoxicated or exhibits extreme confusion or difficulty breathing, the nurse may need to prepare for emergency interventions or even call for additional medical help.

Other interventions, like suggesting a walk outside, could be unsafe due to the patient's impaired motor skills and judgment. Administering alcohol as a counteraction is counterproductive and could exacerbate the situation. Contacting family members may be appropriate later, but the immediate focus should be on the safety and well-being of the patient in the current state of intoxication.