NCLEX-RNPharmacological and Parenteral TherapiesEasy
A client with a history of alcohol use disorder is admitted with acute pancreatitis. The provider prescribes thiamine 100 mg IV daily. The nurse understands this medication is prescribed primarily to prevent which complication?
- AHypoglycemia
- BElectrolyte imbalance
- CWernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
- DDelirium tremens
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency is common in clients with alcohol use disorder due to poor nutrition and impaired absorption. This deficiency can lead to serious neurological complications, primarily Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which thiamine supplementation aims to prevent.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While alcohol use can affect blood glucose, thiamine is not primarily given to prevent hypoglycemia.
- B. Alcohol use can cause electrolyte imbalances, but thiamine's main role is not for direct electrolyte correction.
- D. Delirium tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal, and while thiamine is part of supportive care, benzodiazepines are the primary treatment.
Thiamine in Alcoholism
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) supplementation is critical in clients with alcohol use disorder to prevent neurological complications, especially Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, due to common thiamine deficiency.
- Alcohol impairs thiamine absorption and utilization.
- Thiamine deficiency can lead to Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff psychosis.
- Symptoms include ataxia, confusion, and ocular disturbances.
Memory trick: Think 'Alcoholic's Brain Needs B1' to prevent severe damage.