# 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?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=394130&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Mental Health Concepts  
> category: PSI

## 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?

## Option

1. Administer prescribed benzodiazepine and maintain seizure precautions. **✔ Correct answer**
2. Encourage the client to sleep without further assessment.
3. Offer caffeinated coffee to improve alertness.
4. Place the client in a stimulating group activity.

**Correct answer: 1**

## 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.

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