What should the nurse most importantly assess in a client admitted to an intensive outpatient rehabilitation program for cocaine use?

• A. GI distress
• B. Blurred vision
• C. Perceptual distortions
• D. Increased appetite

Answer: (C)

When assessing a client admitted to an intensive outpatient rehabilitation program for cocaine use, the most important factor to evaluate is perceptual distortions. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can significantly affect the central nervous system, leading to alterations in perception, mood, and cognition. Clients may experience symptoms such as paranoia, hallucinations, or delusions during withdrawal or introspection.

Identifying these perceptual distortions is critical because they can impact the client’s treatment and safety. Understanding a client's mental state is essential for tailoring interventions and ensuring that they receive supportive care. Addressing these symptoms early can help prevent complications that could arise from these alterations in perception, such as increased anxiety or the risk of self-harm.

While the other symptoms like gastrointestinal distress, blurred vision, and increased appetite can also be relevant, they are not as directly tied to the immediate psychological assessment required in the context of cocaine withdrawal. Focused assessments regarding perceptual changes provide the necessary insights for appropriate interventions and adjustments to the treatment plan, making it a central concern in this scenario.