A client who stopped heavy alcohol use 24 hours ago is tremu… | MyMerci
Mental Health ConceptsPSI
Question
A client who stopped heavy alcohol use 24 hours ago is tremulous, diaphoretic, anxious, and reports seeing insects on the wall. Which action should the nurse anticipate?
1Administer prescribed benzodiazepine and maintain seizure precautions.✓ Correct answer
2Encourage the client to sleep without further assessment.
3Offer caffeinated coffee to improve alertness.
4Place the client in a stimulating group activity.
Explanation
Tremor, diaphoresis, anxiety, and hallucinations after stopping heavy alcohol use can indicate alcohol withdrawal and risk for seizures or delirium tremens. Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed, and seizure precautions and close monitoring are needed. Caffeine and stimulation can worsen symptoms.
In-depth explanation
Clinical Judgment Alcohol withdrawal can become life-threatening, so safety and medication protocol matter early.
Memory Tip Withdrawal: tremor, sweat, hallucinations, seizures.
Clinical scenario
Clinical Practice Guide Withdrawal care includes symptom scoring, vital signs, seizure precautions, fluids, thiamine, and prescribed sedative therapy.
Caution Hallucinations and autonomic symptoms require prompt escalation.
Key concepts
Alcohol Withdrawal — Symptoms that occur after reducing or stopping heavy alcohol use.
Delirium Tremens — A severe withdrawal state with confusion, autonomic instability, and hallucinations.
Benzodiazepine — A sedative medication class commonly used for alcohol withdrawal management.