A client has begun to exhibit signs of alcohol withdrawal. Her blood pressure has risen from 120/60 to 190/100, pulse is increased from 88 to 110 bpm, and she is irritable and agitated and has gross motor tremors of the hands. The nurse notifies the doctor. The nurse can anticipate that the doctor will order which of the following?
- An opiate such as propoxyphene napsylate (Darvocet)
- A benzodiazepine such as chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- A tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil)
- A phenothiazine such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine)
Answer(s): B
Explanation:
(A) This answer is incorrect. Benzodiazepines are drugs of choice for alcohol withdrawal. (B) This answer is correct. The drug has a sedative effect, is safe, and has an anticonvulsant effect.(C) This answer is incorrect. Amitriptyline is an antidepressant. (D) This answer is incorrect. Chlorpromazine is most effective in psychotic disorders.
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