A nurse is collecting data from a client who has alcohol use disorder and is experiencing withdrawal. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
A.
Hypertension
B.
Constipation
C.
Polyuria
D.
Bradycardia
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Hypertension.
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) occurs when a person who has been consuming alcohol heavily for a prolonged period suddenly stops or significantly reduces their alcohol intake. The body, having become dependent on alcohol, reacts to the sudden absence of the substance. Alcohol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, and chronic use leads to tolerance. When alcohol is abruptly discontinued, the CNS becomes hyperactive, leading to a range of withdrawal symptoms.
Manifestations of Alcohol Withdrawal:
- Hypertension (increased blood pressure) is a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal. As alcohol inhibits the excitatory neurotransmitters in the brain, its sudden absence leads to an overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system. This triggers the “fight or flight” response, leading to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure (hypertension), and increased body temperature. Hypertension in this context can be dangerous, contributing to risks such as seizures or delirium tremens (a severe form of withdrawal).
- Constipation (B) is not typically associated with alcohol withdrawal. In fact, alcohol use itself can cause diarrhea due to its irritant effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
- Polyuria (C) refers to increased urine output. While alcohol can initially lead to polyuria due to its diuretic effects, it is not a symptom of withdrawal. During withdrawal, dehydration is more common, leading to a reduction in urine output.
- Bradycardia (D), or a slowed heart rate, is the opposite of what typically occurs during alcohol withdrawal. Instead, tachycardia (increased heart rate) is common, along with other signs of autonomic hyperactivity like tremors, sweating, and anxiety.
In addition to hypertension and tachycardia, other symptoms of alcohol withdrawal may include nausea, vomiting, tremors, agitation, hallucinations, and seizures. The severity of withdrawal symptoms varies depending on factors like the duration and amount of alcohol consumption, as well as the individual’s overall health.
Managing alcohol withdrawal safely often requires medical intervention, such as the administration of benzodiazepines to reduce CNS excitability, and monitoring for severe complications like seizures or delirium tremens.