You are treating a 61-year-old who is a chronic alcohol abuser.He is complaining of "snakes slithering around his ankles," and he tells you that he had only two drinks tonight.You notice that he is sweating,trembling,and anxious.Before you can complete your assessment,he begins to have a seizure.Which of the following is the most likely cause of this situation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of "snakes slithering around his ankles," sweating, trembling, and anxiety are consistent with alcohol withdrawal. The seizure is also a common symptom of severe alcohol withdrawal, which can occur in chronic alcohol abusers who abruptly stop or reduce their alcohol intake. The other options (drinking antifreeze, drinking mouthwash, or acute alcohol poisoning) may cause different symptoms, and there is no evidence to support these possibilities in this scenario.

You Are Treating a 61-Year-Old Who Is a Chronic Alcohol