CARN Patient Assessment and Diagnosis 5

Question 1

A nurse performing an addiction assessment documents that a patient continues using substances despite a physician-confirmed diagnosis of alcohol-related liver disease. Under DSM-5 criteria, this finding best satisfies which criterion?

Accepted Answer

Use despite persistent physical health consequences

Answer

Continued use despite a known physical health condition worsened by substance use meets the DSM-5 criterion of use despite persistent or recurrent physical problems.

Question 2

When assessing a patient for methamphetamine use disorder, which constellation of findings is most characteristic of acute intoxication?

Accepted Answer

Mydriasis, hyperthermia, extreme weight loss, and paranoia

Answer

Methamphetamine intoxication produces dilated pupils, elevated temperature, severe weight loss from appetite suppression, and paranoid ideation.

Question 3

A patient's family member tells the nurse that the patient has been hiding alcohol around the house and drinking secretly. In the context of addiction assessment, this behavior most reflects:

Accepted Answer

Loss of control and preoccupation consistent with moderate-to-severe AUD

Answer

Concealment of alcohol and covert drinking indicate loss of control and preoccupation, hallmarks of moderate-to-severe alcohol use disorder.

Question 4

A nurse completing a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment asks about family history of substance use disorders. This question is clinically relevant because:

Accepted Answer

Family history identifies a genetic risk factor for developing SUD

Answer

First-degree relatives of individuals with SUD have significantly higher genetic risk, making family history a key component of risk stratification.

Question 5

Which assessment finding best indicates that a patient in alcohol withdrawal has progressed to delirium tremens (DTs)?

Accepted Answer

Global confusion, agitation, fever, and autonomic instability

Answer

Delirium tremens is defined by the triad of confusion, autonomic instability, and agitation, typically occurring 48–96 hours after last drink and carrying mortality risk.

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test

CARN Patient Assessment and Diagnosis 5