National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I (NCAC I) Practice Exam

What should be avoided in a detox protocol for PCP?

1. Antipsychotics

2. Stimulants

3. Alcohol

4. Opioids

The correct answer is: Antipsychotics

When considering a detox protocol for PCP (Phencyclidine), it's essential to understand the nature of the drug and its effects on the body. PCP is a dissociative anesthetic, and associated treatments must prioritize the patient's safety and comfort. Using antipsychotics in this context should be approached cautiously. While they may seem relevant due to the psychotic symptoms often linked with PCP use, administering them can sometimes lead to adverse interactions or exacerbate the confusion and agitation that users may experience. Given that PCP can lead to severe dissociation and altered mental status, introducing antipsychotics may result in unwanted side effects or complicate the clinical presentation. In contrast, stimulants, alcohol, and opioids, while also needing to be carefully managed during any detox regimen, do not have the same level of direct concern with regard to worsening the immediate effects of PCP. Stimulants can potentially increase agitation but are not as directly contraindicated as antipsychotics. Alcohol and opioids might produce their own withdrawal complications, but they may not directly interfere with the immediate treatment of PCP intoxication. Thus, avoiding antipsychotics is recommended during a detox protocol for PCP to mitigate the risk of adverse reactions and to better manage the unique