A 32-year-old female is conscious and alert at a group home for recovering alcoholics and states, "I'm having rum fits." Counselors from the home tell you that she is a chronic alcoholic who entered their program three days ago and has not had a drink since. Physical examination reveals cool, diaphoretic skin; dilated pupils bilaterally that are responsive to light; and obvious anxiety. HR = 122, BP = 156/104, RR = 20, SaO₂ = 99%, blood glucose = 62 mg/dL. Based on the clinical exam findings, all of the following should be part of your patient management EXCEPT:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Metoprolol should not be given in this scenario as the patient's high heart rate may be compensatory for her low blood glucose and giving a beta blocker could mask this important symptom. The other options are appropriate interventions for an alcoholic in withdrawal, with D50W addressing the low blood glucose, normal saline helping to maintain hydration, and thiamine providing important nutrition for a person with chronic alcoholism.

A 32-Year-Old Female Is Conscious and Alert at a Group