Which findings indicate that the recovering alcoholic may be ...

[crobinson2013]

Which findings indicate that the recovering alcoholic may be developing Wernicke encephalo-pathy? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Confusion
  b. Hallucinations
  c. Verbally aggressive behavior
  d. Ataxia
  e. Seizures

Question 2

The nurse cautions the recovering alcoholic who is on disulfiram (Antabuse) should avoid even small exposure to alcohol. Which signs and symptoms are characteristic of a reaction of disulfi-ram (Antabuse) with alcohol? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Chest pain
  b. Nausea and vomiting
  c. Hypertension
  d. Blurred vision
  e. Blinding headache

[meryzewe]

Answer to Question 1

A, D
A serious effect of chronic alcohol abuse is damage to brain cells. A condition that is reversible with treatment is Wernicke encephalopathy. This condition precedes Korsakoff syndrome (sub-stance-induced persisting dementia), which is irreversible. If the individual has a history of al-cohol use and displays the symptoms of confusion, ataxia, and significant memory loss, Wernicke encephalopathy is suspected. Verbal aggression, hallucinations, and seizures are not characteristic of Wernicke encephalopathy.

Answer to Question 2

A, B, D
Disulfiram (Antabuse) is a drug that causes unpleasant reactions if the patient decides to return to drinking anytime within 2 weeks after starting Antabuse. Even small quantities of alcohol that might be inhaled from shaving lotion could trigger serious reactions such as chest pain, nausea and vomiting, hypotension, weakness, blurred vision, and confusion.

[crobinson2013]

Correct answers!

[meryzewe]

Great! Please up vote