What action should the nurse take for a restless and irritable postoperative patient with auditory hallucinations?

For a restless and irritable postoperative patient presenting with auditory hallucinations, it is essential to assess the patient's clinical condition thoroughly. If the nurse concludes that the symptoms could be attributed to alcohol withdrawal, this would involve taking into account the patient's history, including any substance use. Alcohol withdrawal can cause various symptoms, including agitation, irritability, and hallucinations, especially in the context of recent surgery under anesthesia.

Identifying alcohol withdrawal as the potential cause is crucial because it dictates the appropriate management strategy. Treating withdrawal symptoms may involve specific interventions, such as administering benzodiazepines, rather than immediately resorting to antipsychotics or increasing sedation. This suggests the nurse's action is well-considered based on potential underlying causes rather than merely addressing the symptoms with medication.

In this case, while considering a psychiatric consult or administering antipsychotics may seem appropriate, determining the underlying reason for the patient's condition takes precedence. It ensures that the treatment aligns with the root cause, promoting a better recovery trajectory for the patient.