A patient admitted yesterday for injuries sustained while intoxicated believes the window blinds are snakes trying to get into the room. The patient is anxious, agitated, and diaphoretic. Which medication can the nurse anticipate the health care provider will prescribe?
A) Monoamine oxidase inhibitor, such as phenelzine (Nardil)
B) Phenothiazine, such as thioridazine (Mellaril)
C) Benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam (Ativan)
D) Narcotic analgesic, such as morphine

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This patient is experiencing alcohol withdrawal delirium. Sedation allows for the safe withdrawal from alcohol. Benzodiazepines are the drugs of choice in most regions because of their high therapeutic safety index and anticonvulsant properties. Antidepressant, antipsychotic, and opioid medications will not relieve the patient's symptoms.

A Patient Admitted Yesterday for Injuries Sustained While Intoxicated Believes