A nurse is collecting data from a client who has alcohol use disorder and is experiencing withdrawal. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Polyuria: Increased urine output is not a typical manifestation of alcohol withdrawal. While alcohol can have diuretic effects when consumed, withdrawal symptoms primarily involve autonomic hyperactivity rather than changes in renal output. B. Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure is a common sign of alcohol withdrawal due to sympathetic nervous system overactivity. Clients may also exhibit tachycardia, diaphoresis, and tremors as part of the hyperadrenergic response. C. Bradycardia: Heart rate typically increases during alcohol withdrawal as part of autonomic hyperactivity. Bradycardia is not expected and may indicate another underlying cardiac condition rather than withdrawal. D. Constipation: Gastrointestinal disturbances during withdrawal are more commonly diarrhea or nausea rather than constipation. Autonomic overactivity generally accelerates gut motility rather than slowing it.