A nurse is assessing a client who is withdrawing from alcohol. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply).
Explanation & Rationale
A. Hyperglycemia: Alcohol withdrawal does not typically cause hyperglycemia. Withdrawal from alcohol can sometimes cause hypoglycemia, especially in clients who have been drinking heavily and have poor nutritional intake. B. Visual hallucinations: Visual hallucinations are a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal and can occur as part of alcohol withdrawal delirium (delirium tremens), which usually begins 48 to 72 hours after the last drink. C. Insomnia: Insomnia is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. As the sedative effects of alcohol wear off, clients often experience difficulty sleeping during the withdrawal period. D. Severe hypotension: Severe hypotension is not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal. Alcohol withdrawal may lead to mild hypertension and tachycardia due to sympathetic nervous system activation. E. Tremors: Tremors (often referred to as "the shakes") are a classic sign of alcohol withdrawal. They usually occur within 6 to 12 hours after the last drink and can range from mild to severe. Tremors are one of the most common physical symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.