Case study: Hospitalized client in alcohol withdrawal. A 47-year-old admitted for pancreatitis reports last alcohol use yesterday. The client is tremulous, anxious, and diaphoretic. Which finding in this case is the highest priority for the nurse to address first?

Question

Accepted Answer

A. risk for worsening alcohol withdrawal and delirium tremens — In this case, the highest-priority finding is risk for worsening alcohol withdrawal and delirium tremens because it most directly threatens safety or signals clinical deterioration.

Answer

B. request for coffee

Answer

C. poor appetite

Answer

D. mild insomnia