A patient admitted for injuries sustained while intoxicated has been hospitalized for 48 hours. The patient is now shaky, irritable, anxious, diaphoretic, and reports nightmares. The pulse rate is 130 beats/minute. The patient shouts, "Bugs are crawling on my bed. I've got to get out of here." Select the most accurate assessment of this situation. The patient
A) is attempting to obtain attention by manipulating staff.
B) may have sustained a head injury before admission.
C) has symptoms of alcohol withdrawal delirium.
D) is having an acute psychosis.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Symptoms of agitation, elevated pulse, and perceptual distortions indicate alcohol withdrawal delirium. The findings are inconsistent with manipulative attempts, head injury, or functional psychosis.

A Patient Admitted for Injuries Sustained While Intoxicated Has Been