The health care provider prescribes a multivitamin regimen that includes thiamine for a client with a history of chronic alcohol abuse. The nurse is aware that thiamine is given to this client population for which purpose?

Question

The health care provider prescribes a multivitamin regimen that includes thiamine for a client with a history of chronic alcohol abuse.  The nurse is aware that thiamine is given to this client population for which purpose?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clients with chronic alcohol abuse suffer from poor nutrition related to improper diet and altered nutrient absorption. Poor thiamine intake and/or absorption can lead to Wernicke encephalopathy, a serious complication that manifests as altered mental status, oculomotor dysfunction, and ataxia. Clients are prescribed thiamine to prevent this condition. (Option A) Thiamine is not used to reduce the blood alcohol level; there is no antidote for elevated blood alcohol levels. Supportive measures are used until levels fall and the client is no longer experiencing acute withdrawal symptoms. (Option B) Gross tremors related to acute alcohol withdrawal are treated with benzodiazepines (eg, lorazepam, diazepam). (Option D) Seizures related to acute alcohol withdrawal are treated with benzodiazepines (eg, lorazepam, diazepam, chlordiazepoxide). Thiamine is used to prevent encephalopathy. Encephalopathy may lead to seizures, but thiamine is not used to treat seizures. Educational objective: A major complication of chronic alcohol abuse is encephalopathy related to poor thiamine absorption. It is critical that these clients receive thiamine replacement. Wernicke encephalopathy can lead to more significant and progressive complications, including death.

The Health Care Provider Prescribes a Multivitamin Regimen That Includes