What vital sign change is expected in a client intoxicated with cocaine?

In a client intoxicated with cocaine, hypertension is a well-documented response due to the stimulant effects of the drug on the cardiovascular system. Cocaine causes the release of norepinephrine, which leads to vasoconstriction and an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. This elevated blood pressure can lead to significant health complications, such as stroke or heart attack, making it a critical vital sign to monitor in cases of cocaine intoxication.

While other symptoms such as bradycardia, somnolence, and constricted pupils may occur with different substances, cocaine primarily stimulates cardiovascular activity, resulting in hypertension. Therefore, the expectation of hypertension as a vital sign change in cocaine intoxication is firmly grounded in the drug's pharmacological effects.