While working with substance abuse clients at a clinic, an individual is reported to be experiencing chronic malnutrition, B₁₂deficiency, short-term memory impairment, and increasing memory lapses. History and assessment leads you to understand that the individual is a long-term alcoholic. What might this individual's diagnosis be?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The individual is exhibiting symptoms consistent with Korsakoff's syndrome, which is caused by thiamine deficiency due to long-term alcoholism. Wernicke's encephalopathy and Delirium tremens are also associated with alcoholism, but do not fully encompass the described symptoms. Alcoholic dementia is a more general term that can describe various forms of cognitive impairment associated with chronic alcohol use, but Korsakoff's syndrome is a more specific and accurate diagnosis for this individual's symptoms.

While Working with Substance Abuse Clients at a Clinic, an Individual