A client calls the emergency department of the local hospital reporting that after 16 years of heavy drinking, he is tired and wants to quit cold turkey. What would be the best response by the nurse?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because alcohol withdrawal can be life threatening, detoxification needs to be accomplished under medical supervision. If the client's withdrawal symptoms are mild and he or she can abstain from alcohol, he or she can be treated safely at home. For more severe withdrawal or for clients who cannot abstain during detoxification, a short admission of 3 to 5 days is the most common setting. Some psychiatric units also admit clients for detoxification, but this is less common.

A Client Calls the Emergency Department of the Local Hospital