NCLEX-RNPsychosocial IntegrityMedium
A client who reports drinking a fifth of vodka daily for the past 10 years is admitted for an unrelated surgery. The nurse should monitor most closely for onset of alcohol withdrawal symptoms within which time frame after the last drink?
- A6 to 24 hours
- B2 to 3 weeks
- C3 to 5 days
- D7 to 10 days
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 6 to 24 hours
Early alcohol withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, anxiety, and tachycardia typically begin 6 to 24 hours after the last drink, with delirium tremens (the most severe form) peaking around 48-72 hours. Early recognition allows timely intervention to prevent progression to severe withdrawal.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This is far beyond the typical withdrawal timeline.
- C. This timeframe is closer to when severe complications like DTs may still be occurring but not onset.
- D. Symptoms typically resolve by this time in most clients.
Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline
A predictable timeline of alcohol withdrawal symptoms ranging from mild tremors to life-threatening delirium tremens.
- Onset: 6-24 hours (tremors, anxiety, tachycardia)
- Seizures: 12-48 hours
- Delirium tremens: 48-96 hours, medical emergency
- CIWA-Ar scale used to monitor severity
Memory trick: 6-24-48-72: shakes, seizures, DTs, danger.