A 68-year-old man with a history of alcohol abuse is admitted to ...

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A 68-year-old man with a history of alcohol abuse is admitted to the acute care facility for reports of abdominal pain. Based on your understanding of alcohol withdrawal, the nurse knows that if patient is currently abusing alcohol, he will most likely
 
  a. experience delirium tremors within 4 hours of hospitalization.
  b. develop withdrawal symptoms 48 to 72 hours after the last intake of alcohol.
  c. receive 1 ounce of alcohol every 4 hours while awake.
  d. be prescribed oxazepam (Serax).

Question 2

A 76-year-old patient has been recently diagnosed with cardiac valvular disease. The nurse assesses the patient and recognizes that the medical diagnosis is supported by
 
  a. cyanotic fingertips.
  b. weight loss of 10 pounds in 3 months.
  c. angina pain.
  d. shortness of breath with activity.

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Answer to Question 1

B
Symptoms tend to peak 48 to 72 hours after a patient's last drink, although they may occur with-in 4 to 12 hours. The patient may or may not have DTs. The patient should not receive alcohol and may or may not need medication.

Answer to Question 2

D
Individuals with valvular disease may be asymptomatic for many years, but with the deteriora-tion of the valves and hypertrophic changes in the atria or ventricles, symptoms become evident. Exertional dyspnea is frequently the initial symptom. Other symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, weakness, and palpitations. The other signs are not manifestations of valve disease.