NCLEX Question for history of chronic alcoholism

NCLEX Review Question

When a person with a history of chronic alcoholism is admitted to the hospital for surgery, the nurse anticipates that the patient may show signs of alcohol withdrawal delirium during which time period?

a.Up to 72 hours after alcohol withdrawal
b.Immediately upon admission
c.Upon awakening in the post-anesthesia care unit
d.Up to 24 hours after alcohol withdrawal

Correct Answer: A
Up to 72 hours after alcohol withdrawal
Rationale: Alcohol withdrawal delirium is associated with a significant mortality rate when it occurs postoperatively.

Immediately upon admission
Rationale: Onset of symptoms depends upon time of last consumption of alcohol.

Upon awakening in the post-anesthesia care unit
Rationale: Onset of symptoms depends upon time of last consumption of alcohol.

Up to 24 hours after alcohol withdrawal
Rationale: Twenty-four hours is too short a time frame to consider alcohol withdrawal delirium no longer a threat to a chronic alcoholic.

Posted in: MSN NCLEX