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    Ati rn mental health proctored exam 2023

    A nurse is assessing a client who has alcohol use disorder and is experiencing withdrawal. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

    Explanation & Rationale

    Choice A reason: Rhinorrhea is not a typical finding in alcohol withdrawal. It is more commonly associated with opioid withdrawal due to autonomic hyperactivity. Choice B reason: Hypotension is not characteristic of alcohol withdrawal. Instead, clients often experience hypertension and tachycardia due to autonomic nervous system hyperactivity. Choice C reason: Seizures are a hallmark and dangerous complication of alcohol withdrawal. They typically occur within 12–48 hours after cessation of alcohol use and are related to central nervous system hyperexcitability. This makes seizures the most critical finding to expect and monitor. Choice D reason: Hyperglycemia is not a direct manifestation of alcohol withdrawal. While alcohol use can affect glucose metabolism, withdrawal symptoms are primarily neurological and autonomic, not metabolic.

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