Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is a common psychological symptom the nurse should anticipate in a client experiencing withdrawal from cocaine?

1. Increased energy

2. Depression

3. Heightened alertness

4. Extreme happiness

The correct answer is: Depression

A client experiencing withdrawal from cocaine often exhibits symptoms related to a significant decrease in mood and motivation. Specifically, depression is a common psychological symptom during this phase. This occurs because cocaine increases levels of dopamine in the brain, creating feelings of euphoria and energy as the drug is taken. When the drug is withdrawn, there is a sharp decline in dopamine levels, leading to feelings of sadness, lethargy, and a lack of pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. Understanding that withdrawal symptoms can greatly impact a client's psychological state is crucial for nursing care. Effective assessment and support are essential to help the client navigate these challenging emotional states. Recognizing that withdrawal can include depression allows the nursing staff to implement appropriate interventions, such as monitoring for suicidal ideation, providing emotional support, and reinforcing coping strategies. The other options reflect effects associated with cocaine use rather than withdrawal. Increased energy and heightened alertness are effects of the drug itself when it is being used, while extreme happiness is tied to the euphoric experience during use, not during withdrawal.