A nurse is admitting a client with a history of alcohol use disorder. The nurse is aware that which of the following are potential physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal? (Select all that apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A Reason:Seizures are a serious and potentially life-threatening symptom of alcohol withdrawal. They can occur as a result of the sudden cessation of alcohol intake, especially in individuals with a long history of heavy use. The risk of seizures is highest in the first 48 hours after the last drink.Choice B Reason:Tachycardia, or rapid heart rate, is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. It is part of the body's sympathetic nervous system response to the stress of withdrawal. Monitoring and managing tachycardia is important to prevent complications.Choice C Reason:Hallucinations, particularly visual hallucinations, can occur during alcohol withdrawal. These hallucinations are typically transient and may occur in the absence of other delirium symptoms. They are a component of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome.Choice D Reason:Tremors are one of the earliest signs of alcohol withdrawal and are often referred to as "the shakes." They are caused by the nervous system adjusting to the absence of alcohol. Tremors usually begin within 5 to 10 hours after the last alcohol intake and can worsen over the next 48 to 72 hours.Choice E Reason:Hypotension is not typically a primary symptom of alcohol withdrawal. In fact, blood pressure may initially rise during withdrawal. However, if severe withdrawal leads to dehydration or other complications, hypotension could potentially occur.