Alcohol, a CNS depressant drug, is used socially in our society for many reasons: to enhance the flavor of food, to encourage relaxation and conviviality, for celebrations, and as a sacred ritual in some religious ceremonies. Therapeutically, it is the major ingredient in many OTC/prescription medications. It can be harmless, enjoyable, and sometimes beneficial when used responsibly and in moderation. Like other mind-altering drugs, however, it has the potential for abuse, and, in fact, is the most widely abused drug in the United States (research suggests 5%–10% of the adult population) and is potentially fatal.
Care setting
May be inpatient on a behavioral unit or outpatient in community programs. Although patients are not generally admitted to the acute care setting with this diagnosis, withdrawal from alcohol may occur secondarily during hospitalization for other illnesses/conditions. A short hospital stay may be required during the acute phase because of severity of general condition, or a delayed discharge from acute care can be the result of alcohol withdrawal beginning within 6–48 hr of admission.
Related concerns
Cirrhosis of the liver
Upper gastrointestinal/esophageal bleeding
Heart failure
Psychosocial aspects of care
Substance dependence/abuse rehabilitation
Patient Assessment Database
Data depend on the duration/extent of use of alcohol, concurrent use of other drugs, degree of organ involvement, and presence of other pathology.
activity/rest
May report: Difficulty sleeping, not feeling well rested
circulation
May exhibit: Generalized tissue edema (due to protein deficiencies)
Peripheral pulses weak, irregular, or rapid
Hypertension common in early withdrawal stage but may become labile/progress to hypotension
Tachycardia common during acute withdrawal; numerous dysrhythmias may be identified
Ego integrity
May report: Feelings of guilt/shame; defensiveness about drinking
Denial, rationalization
Multiple stressors/losses (relationships, employment, finances)
Use of alcohol to deal with life stressors, boredom
Elimination
May report: Diarrhea
May exhibit: Bowel sounds varied (may reflect gastric complications, e.g., hemorrhage)
Food/fluid
May report: Nausea/vomiting; food intolerance
May exhibit: Gastric distension; ascites, liver enlargement (seen in cirrhosis)
Muscle wasting, dry/dull hair, swollen salivary glands, inflamed buccal cavity, capillary fragility (malnutrition)
Bowel sounds varied (reflecting malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, general bowel dysfunction)
Neurosensory
May report: “Internal shakes”
Headache, dizziness, blurred vision; “blackouts”
May exhibit: Psychopathology, e.g., paranoid schizophrenia, major depression (may indicate dual diagnosis)
Level of consciousness/orientation varies, e.g., confusion, stupor, hyperactivity, distorted thought processes, slurred/incoherent speech
Memory loss/confabulation
Affect/mood/behavior: May be fearful, anxious, easily startled, inappropriate, silly, euphoric, irritable, physically/verbally abusive, depressed, and/or paranoid
Hallucinations: Visual, tactile, olfactory, and auditory, e.g., patient may be picking items out of air or responding verbally to unseen person/voices
Eye examination: Nystagmus (associated with cranial nerve palsy); pupil constriction (may indicate CNS depression); arcus senilis-ringlike opacity of the cornea (although normal in aging populations, suggests alcohol-related changes in younger patients)
Fine motor tremors of face, tongue, and hands; seizures (commonly grand mal)
Gait unsteady (ataxia), may be due to thiamine deficiency or cerebellar degeneration (Wernicke’s encephalopathy)
Pain/discomfort
May report: Constant upper abdominal pain and tenderness radiating to the back (pancreatic inflammation)
respiration
May report: History of smoking, recurrent/chronic respiratory problems
May exhibit: Tachypnea (hyperactive state of alcohol withdrawal)
Cheyne-Stokes respirations or respiratory depression
Breath sounds diminished, adventitious sounds (suggests pulmonary complications, e.g., respiratory depression, pneumonia)
safety
May report: History of recurrent trauma such as falls, fractures, lacerations, burns, blackouts, or motor vehicle crashes
May exhibit: Skin: Flushed face/palms of hands; scars, ecchymotic areas; cigarette burns on fingers, spider nevus (impaired portal circulation), fissures at corners of mouth (vitamin deficiency)
Fractures healed or new (signs of recent/recurrent trauma)
Temperature elevation (dehydration and sympathetic stimulation); flushing/diaphoresis (suggests presence of infection)
Suicidal ideation/suicide attempts (some research suggests alcoholic suicide attempts are 30% higher than national average for general population)
social interaction
May report: Frequent sick days off from work/school; fighting with others, arrests (disorderly conduct, motor vehicle violations/driving under the influence [DUI])
Denial that alcohol intake has any significant effect on present condition
Dysfunctional family system of origin (generational involvement); problems in current relationships
Mood changes affecting interactions with others
Teaching/learning
May report: Family history of alcoholism
History of alcohol and/or other drug use/abuse
Ignorance and/or denial of addiction to alcohol, or inability to cut down or stop drinking despite repeated efforts; previous periods of abstinence/withdrawal
Large amount of alcohol consumed in last 24–48 hr
Previous hospitalizations for alcoholism/alcohol-related diseases, e.g., cirrhosis, esophageal varices
Discharge plan DRG projected mean length of inpatient stay: 4.9 days
considerations: May require assistance to maintain abstinence and begin to participate in rehabilitation program
Refer to section at end of plan for postdischarge considerations.
diagnostic studies
Blood alcohol/drug levels: Alcohol level may/may not be severely elevated, depending on amount consumed, time between consumption and testing, and the degree of tolerance, which varies widely. In the absence of elevated alcohol tolerance, blood levels in excess of 100 mg/dL are associated with ataxia; at 200 mg/dL the patient is drowsy and confused; respiratory depression occurs with blood levels of 400 mg/dL and death is possible. In addition to alcohol, numerous controlled substances may be identified in a poly-drug screen, e.g., amphetamine, cocaine, morphine, Percodan, Quaalude.
CBC: Decreased Hb/Hct may reflect such problems as iron-deficiency anemia or acute/chronic GI bleeding. WBC count may be increased with infection or decreased if immunosuppressed.
Glucose/Ketones: Hyperglycemia/hypoglycemia may be present, related to pancreatitis, malnutrition, or depletion of liver glycogen stores. Ketoacidosis may be present with/without metabolic acidosis.
Electrolytes: Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia are common.
Liver function tests: LDH, AST, ALT, and amylase may be elevated, reflecting liver or pancreatic damage.
Nutritional tests: Albumin is low and total protein may be decreased. Vitamin deficiencies are usually present, reflecting malnutrition/malabsorption.
Other screening studies (e.g., hepatitis, HIV, TB): Depend on general condition, individual risk factors, and care setting.
Urinalysis: Infection may be identified; ketones may be present, related to breakdown of fatty acids in malnutrition (pseudodiabetic condition).
Chest x-ray: May reveal right lower lobe pneumonia (malnutrition, depressed immune system, aspiration) or chronic lung disorders associated with tobacco use.
ECG: Dysrhythmias, cardiomyopathies, and/or ischemia may be present because of direct effect of alcohol on the cardiac muscle and/or conduction system, as well as effects of electrolyte imbalance.
Addiction Severity Index (ASI): An assessment tool that produces a “problem severity profile” of the patient, including chemical, medical, psychological, legal, family/social, and employment/support aspects, indicating areas of treatment needs.
Nursing priorities
1. Maintain physiological stability during acute withdrawal phase.
2. Promote patient safety.
3. Provide appropriate referral and follow-up.
4. Encourage/support SO involvement in “Intervention” (confrontation) process.
5. Provide information about condition/prognosis and treatment needs.
Discharge goals
1. Homeostasis achieved.
2. Complications prevented/resolved.
3. Sobriety being maintained on a day-to-day basis.
4. Ongoing participation in rehabilitation program/attending group therapy, e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous.
5. Condition, prognosis, and therapeutic regimen understood.
6. Plan in place to meet needs after discharge.
This plan of care is to be used in conjunction with CP: Substance Dependence/Abuse Rehabilitation.
| NURSING DIAGNOSIS: Breathing Pattern, risk for ineffective Risk factors may include Direct effect of alcohol toxicity on respiratory center and/or sedative drugs given to decrease alcohol withdrawal symptoms Tracheobronchial obstruction Presence of chronic respiratory problems, inflammatory process Decreased energy/fatigue Possibly evidenced by [Not applicable; presence of signs and symptoms establishes an actual diagnosis] DESIRED OUTCOMES/EVALUATION CRITERIA—PATIENT WILL: Respiratory Status: Ventilation (NOC) Maintain effective breathing pattern with respiratory rate within normal range, lungs clear; be free of cyanosis and other signs/symptoms of hypoxia. |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Respiratory Monitoring (NIC) Independent Monitor respiratory rate/depth and pattern as indicated. Note periods of apnea, Cheyne-Stokes respirations. Auscultate breath sounds. Note presence of adventitious sounds, e.g., rhonchi, wheezes. Airway Management (NIC) Elevate head of bed. Encourage cough/deep-breathing exercises and frequent position changes. Have suction equipment, airway adjuncts available. | RATIONALE Frequent assessment is important because toxicity levels may change rapidly. Hyperventilation is common during acute withdrawal phase. Kussmaul’s respirations are sometimes present because of acidotic state associated with vomiting and malnutrition. However, marked respiratory depression can occur because of CNS depressant effects of alcohol if acute intoxication is present. This may be compounded by drugs used to control alcohol withdrawal symptoms (AWS). Patient is at risk for atelectasis related to hypoventilation and pneumonia. Right lower lobe pneumonia is common in alcohol-debilitated patients and is often due to chronic aspiration. Chronic lung diseases are also common, e.g., emphysema, bronchitis. Decreases potential for aspiration; lowers diaphragm, enhancing lung inflation. Facilitates lung expansion and mobilization of secretions to reduce risk of atelectasis/pneumonia. Sedative effects of alcohol/drugs potentiates risk of aspiration, relaxation of oropharyngeal muscles, and respiratory depression, requiring intervention to prevent respiratory arrest. |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Airway Management (NIC) Collaborative Administer supplemental oxygen if necessary. Review serial chest x-rays, ABGs/pulse oximetry as available/indicated. | RATIONALE Hypoxia may occur with CNS/respiratory depression. Monitors presence of secondary complications such as atelectasis/pneumonia; evaluates effectiveness of respiratory effort, identifies therapy needs. |
| NURSING DIAGNOSIS: Cardiac Output, risk for decreased Risk factors may include Direct effect of alcohol on the heart muscle Altered systemic vascular resistance Electrical alterations in rate, rhythm, conduction Possibly evidenced by [Not applicable; presence of signs and symptoms establishes an actual diagnosis] DESIRED OUTCOMES/EVALUATION CRITERIA—PATIENT WILL: Circulation Status (NOC) Display vital signs within patient’s normal range; absence of/reduced frequency of dysrhythmias. Demonstrate an increase in activity tolerance. |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Hemodynamic Regulation (NIC) Independent Monitor vital signs frequently during acute withdrawal. Monitor cardiac rate/rhythm. Document irregularities/ | RATIONALE Hypertension frequently occurs in acute withdrawal phase. Extreme hyperexcitability, accompanied by catecholamine release and increased peripheral vascular resistance, raises BP and heart rate; however, BP may become labile/progress to hypotension. Note: Patient may have underlying cardiovascular disease, which is compounded by alcohol withdrawal. Long-term alcohol abuse may result in cardiomyopathy/ |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Hemodynamic Regulation (NIC) Independent Monitor body temperature. Monitor I&O. Note 24-hr fluid balance. Be prepared for/assist in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Collaborative Monitor laboratory studies, e.g., serum electrolyte levels. Administer fluids and electrolytes, as indicated. Administer medications as indicated, e.g.: Clonidine (Catapres), atenolol (Tenormin); Potassium. | RATIONALE Elevation may occur because of sympathetic stimulation, dehydration, and/or infections, causing vasodilation and compromising venous return/cardiac output. Preexisting dehydration, vomiting, fever, and diaphoresis may result in decreased circulating volume that can compromise cardiovascular function. Note: Hydration is difficult to assess in the alcoholic patient because the usual indicators are not reliable, and overhydration is a risk in the presence of compromised cardiac function. Causes of death during acute withdrawal stages include cardiac dysrhythmias, respiratory depression/arrest, oversedation, excessive psychomotor activity, severe dehydration or overhydration, and massive infections. Mortality for unrecognized/untreated delirium tremens (DTs) may be as high as 25%. Electrolyte imbalance, e.g., potassium/magnesium, potentiate risk of cardiac dysrhythmias and CNS excitability. Severe alcohol withdrawal causes the patient to be susceptible to fluid losses (associated with fever, diaphoresis, and vomiting) and electrolyte imbalances, especially potassium, magnesium, and glucose. Although the use of benzodiazepines is often sufficient to control hypertension during initial withdrawal from alcohol, some patients may require more specific therapy. Note: Atenolol and other b-adrenergic blockers may speed up the withdrawal process and eliminate tremors, as well as lower the heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. Corrects deficits that can result in life-threatening dysrhythmias. |
| NURSING DIAGNOSIS: Injury, risk for [specify] Risk factors may include Cessation of alcohol intake with varied autonomic nervous system responses to the system’s suddenly altered state Involuntary clonic/tonic muscle activity (seizures) Equilibrium/balancing difficulties, reduced muscle and hand/eye coordination Possibly evidenced by [Not applicable; presence of signs and symptoms establishes an actual diagnosis] DESIRED OUTCOMES/EVALUATION CRITERIA—PATIENT WILL: Risk Control (NOC) Demonstrate absence of untoward effects of withdrawal. Experience no physical injury. |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Substance Use Treatment: Independent Identify stage of AWS (alchohol withdrawal syndrome); i.e., stage I is associated with signs/symptoms of hyperactivity (e.g., tremors, sleeplessness, nausea/ Monitor/document seizure activity. Maintain patent airway. Provide environmental safety, e.g., padded side rails, bed in low position. Check deep-tendon reflexes. Assess gait, if possible. Assist with ambulation and self-care activities as needed. | RATIONALE Prompt recognition and intervention may halt progression of symptoms and enhance recovery/improve prognosis. In addition, recurrence/progression of symptoms indicates need for changes in drug therapy/more intense treatment to prevent death. Grand mal seizures are most common and may be related to decreased magnesium levels, hypoglycemia, elevated blood alcohol, or history of head trauma/preexisting seizure disorder. Note: In absence of history of/other pathology causing seizures, they usually stop spontaneously, requiring only symptomatic treatment. Note: Antiepileptic drugs are not indicated for alcohol withdrawal seizures. Reflexes may be depressed, absent, or hyperactive. Peripheral neuropathies are common, especially in malnourished patient. Ataxia (gait disturbance) is associated with Wernicke’s syndrome (thiamine deficiency) and cerebellar degeneration. Prevents falls with resultant injury. |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Substance Use Treatment: Independent Provide for environmental safety when indicated. (Refer to ND: Sensory-Perceptual alterations, following.) Collaborative Administer medications as indicated e.g.: Benzodiazepines (BZDs), e.g., chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), clonazepam (Klonopin), oxazepam (Serax), clorazepate (Tranxene); Haloperidol (Haldol); Thiamine; Magnesium sulfate. | RATIONALE May be required when equilibrium, hand/eye coordination problems exist. BZDs are commonly used to control neuronal hyperactivity because of their minimal respiratory and cardiac depression and anticonvulsant properties. Studies have also shown that these drugs can prevent progression to more severe states of withdrawal. IV/PO administration is preferred route because IM absorption is unpredictable. Muscle-relaxant qualities are particularly helpful to patient in controlling “the shakes,” trembling, and ataxic quality of movements. Patient may initially require large doses to achieve desired effect, and then drugs may be tapered and discontinued, usually within 96 hr. Note: These agents are used cautiously in patients with known hepatic disease because they are metabolized by the liver, although Serax has a shorter half-life. May be used in conjunction with BZDs for patients experiencing hallucinations. Thiamine deficiency (common in alcohol abuse) may lead to neuritis, Wernecke’s syndrome, and/or Korsakoff’s psychosis. Reduces tremors and seizure activity by decreasing neuromuscular excitability. |
| NURSING DIAGNOSIS: Sensory-Perceptual alterations (specify) May be related to Chemical alteration: Exogenous (e.g., alcohol consumption/sudden cessation) and endogenous (e.g., electrolyte imbalance, elevated ammonia and BUN) Sleep deprivation Psychological stress (anxiety/fear) Possibly evidenced by Disorientation to time, place, person, or situation Changes in usual response to stimuli; exaggerated emotional responses, change in behavior Bizarre thinking Listlessness, irritability, apprehension, activity associated with visual/auditory hallucinations Fear/anxiety DESIRED OUTCOMES/EVALUATION CRITERIA—PATIENT WILL: Cognitive Ability (NOC) Regain/maintain usual level of consciousness. Distorted Thought Control (NOC) Report absence of/reduced hallucinations. Identify external factors that affect sensory-perceptual abilities. |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Substance Use Treatment: Independent Assess level of consciousness; ability to speak, response to stimuli/commands. Observe behavioral responses, e.g., hyperactivity, disorientation, confusion, sleeplessness, irritability. Note onset of hallucinations. Document as auditory, visual, and/or tactile. | RATIONALE Speech may be garbled, confused, or slurred. Response to commands may reveal inability to concentrate, impaired judgment, or muscle coordination deficits. Hyperactivity related to CNS disturbances may escalate rapidly. Sleeplessness is common due to loss of sedative effect gained from alcohol usually consumed before bedtime. Sleep deprivation may aggravate disorientation/ Auditory hallucinations are reported to be more frightening/threatening to patient. Visual hallucinations occur more at night and often include insects, animals, or faces of friends/enemies. Patients are frequently observed “picking the air.” Yelling may occur if patient is calling for help from perceived threat (usually seen in stage III AWS). |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Substance Use Treatment: Independent Provide quiet environment. Speak in calm, quiet voice. Regulate lighting as indicated. Turn off radio/TV during sleep. Provide care by same personnel whenever possible. Encourage SO to stay with patient whenever possible. Reorient frequently to person, place, time, and surrounding environment as indicated. Avoid bedside discussion about patient or topics unrelated to the patient that do not include the patient. Provide environmental safety, e.g., place bed in low position, leave doors in full open or closed position, observe frequently, place call light/bell within reach, remove articles that can harm patient. Collaborative Provide seclusion, restraints as necessary. Monitor laboratory studies, e.g., electrolytes, magnesium levels, liver function studies, ammonia, BUN, glucose, ABGs. Administer medications as indicated, e.g.: Antianxiety agents as indicated. (Refer to ND: Anxiety [severe/panic]/Fear), following); | RATIONALE Reduces external stimuli during hyperactive stage. Patient may become more delirious when surroundings cannot be seen, but some respond better to quiet, darkened room. Promotes recognition of caregivers and a sense of consistency, which may reduce fear. May have a calming effect, and may provide a reorienting influence. May reduce confusion, prevent/limit misinterpretation of external stimuli. Patient may hear and misinterpret conversation, which can aggravate hallucinations. Patient may have distorted sense of reality or be fearful or suicidal, requiring protection from self. Patients with excessive psychomotor activity, severe hallucinations, violent behavior, and/or suicidal gestures may respond better to seclusion. Restraints are usually ineffective and add to patient’s agitation, but occasionally may be required to prevent self-harm. Changes in organ function may precipitate or potentiate sensory-perceptual deficits. Electrolyte imbalance is common. Liver function is often impaired in the chronic alcoholic, and ammonia intoxication can occur if the liver is unable to convert ammonia to urea. Ketoacidosis is sometimes present without glycosuria; however, hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia may occur, suggesting pancreatitis or impaired gluconeogenesis in the liver. Hypoxemia and hypercarbia are common manifestations in chronic alcoholics who are also heavy smokers. Reduces hyperactivity, promoting relaxation/sleep. Drugs that have little effect on dreaming may be desired to allow dream recovery (REM rebound) to occur, which has previously been suppressed by alcohol use. |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Substance Use Treatment: Collaborative Thiamine, vitamins C and B complex, multivitamins, Stresstabs. | RATIONALE Vitamins may be depleted because of insufficient intake and malabsorption. Vitamin deficiency (especially thiamine) is associated with ataxia, loss of eye movement and pupillary response, palpitations, postural hypotension, and exertional dyspnea. |
| NURSING DIAGNOSIS: Anxiety [severe/panic]/Fear May be related to Cessation of alcohol intake/physiological withdrawal Situational crisis (hospitalization) Threat to self-concept, perceived threat of death Possibly evidenced by Feelings of inadequacy, shame, self-disgust, and remorse Increased helplessness/hopelessness with loss of control of own life Increased tension, apprehension Fear of unspecified consequences; identifies object of fear DESIRED OUTCOMES/EVALUATION CRITERIA—PATIENT WILL: Anxiety or Fear Control (NOC) Verbalize reduction of fear and anxiety to an acceptable and manageable level. Express sense of regaining some control of situation/life. Demonstrate problem-solving skills and use resources effectively. |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Anxiety Reduction (NIC) Independent Identify cause of anxiety, involving patient in the process. Explain that alcohol withdrawal increases anxiety and uneasiness. Reassess level of anxiety on an ongoing basis. Develop a trusting relationship through frequent contact being honest and nonjudgmental. Project an accepting attitude about alcoholism. | RATIONALE Person in acute phase of withdrawal may be unable to identify and/or accept what is happening. Anxiety may be physiologically or environmentally caused. Continued alcohol toxicity will be manifested by increased anxiety and agitation as effects of medication wear off. Provides patient with a sense of humanness, helping to decrease paranoia and distrust. Patient will be able to detect biased or condescending attitude of caregivers. |
ACTIONS/INTERVENTIONS Anxiety Reduction (NIC) Independent Inform patient about what you plan to do and why. Include patient in planning process and provide choices when possible. Reorient frequently. (Refer to ND: Sensory-Perceptual alterations.) Collaborative Administer medications as indicated, e.g.: Benzodiazepines, e.g., chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium); Barbiturates, e.g., phenobarbital, or possibly secobarbital (Seconal), pentobarbital (Nembutal). Arrange “Intervention” (confrontation) in controlled setting. Provide consultation for referral to detoxification/ | RATIONALE Enhances sense of trust, and explanation may increase cooperation/reduce anxiety. Provides sense of control over self in circumstance where loss of control is a significant factor. Note: Feelings of self-worth are intensified when one is treated as a worthwhile person. Patient may experience periods of confusion, resulting in increased anxiety. Antianxiety agents are given during acute withdrawal to help patient relax, be less hyperactive, and feel more in control. These drugs suppress alcohol withdrawal but need to be used with caution because they are respiratory depressants and REM sleep cycle inhibitors. Process wherein SO/family members, supported by staff, provide information about how patient’s drinking and behavior have affected each one of them, helps patient acknowledge that drinking is a problem and has resulted in current situational crisis. Patient is more likely to contract for treatment while still hurting and experiencing fear and anxiety from last drinking episode. Motivation decreases as well-being increases and person again feels able to control the problem. Direct contact with available treatment resources provides realistic picture of help. Decreases time for patient to “think about it”/change mind or restructure and strengthen denial systems. |
POTENTIAL CONSIDERATIONS following acute care (dependent on patient’s age, physical condition/
presence of complications, personal resources, and life responsibilities)
Refer to: Substance Abuse/Rehabilitation plan of care, and plans of care for any specific underlying medical condition(s).
Sample CP: Alcohol Withdrawal Program. ELOS: 5 Days Behavioral Unit
ND and Cate- Time Time Time
gories of Care Dimension Goals/Actions Dimension Goals/Actions Dimension Goals/Actions
| Risk for injury (varied autonomic and sensory responses) Referrals Diagnostic studies Additional assessments Medications Allergies: ____________ Patient education | Day 1 Day 1 Day 1 Day 1 Day 1–4 Ongoing Stage I Stage II Stage III Day 1 Day 1–4 Day 2 Day 1 | Verbalize understanding of unit policies, procedures, and safety concerns relative to individual needs Cooperate with therapeutic regimen RN-NP or MD If indicated: Internist Cardiologist Neurologist BA level Drug screen (urine and blood) If indicated: CXR Pulse oximetry ECG VS, temp, respiratory status/breath sounds q4h I&O q8h Motor activity, body language, verbalizations, need for/type of restraint Withdrawal symptoms: Tremors, N/V, hypertension, tachycardia, diaphoresis, sleeplessness Increased hyperactivity, hallucinations, seizure activity Extreme autonomic hyperactivity, profound confusion, anxiety, fever Librium 200 mg PO Thiamine 100 mg IM Librium 160 mg PO Orient to room/unit, schedule, procedures | Day 3 Day 4 Day 2 Day 2–3 Day 3 Day 4 Day 3–4 | Vital signs stable I&O balanced Display marked decrease in objective symptoms SMA 20 Serum Mg, amylase RPR UA VS q8h if stable Librium 120 mg PO Librium 80 mg PO Need for ongoing therapy Goals/availability of AA program | Day 5 Day 4 Day 4–5 Day 5 Day 5 | Be free of injury resulting from ETOH withdrawal Display no objective symptoms of withdrawal Repeat of selected studies as indicated VS gd Librium 40 mg PO Schedule of follow-up visits if indicated |
Sample CP: Alcohol Withdrawal Program. ELOS: 5 Days Behavioral Unit (Continued)
ND and Cate- Time Time Time
gories of Care Dimension Goals/Actions Dimension Goals/Actions Dimension Goals/Actions
| Additional nursing actions Ineffective individual coping R/T personal vulnerability, situational crisis, inadequate coping methods Referrals Additional assessments Medications Patient education | Day 1 Day 1–2 Ongoing Day 1–5 Day 2–5 Day 1 Day 2–5 Day 1 Day 1–2 Day 1 Day 1–2 Day 2 | Bed rest 12 hr if in withdrawal Position change, HOB elevated; C, DB exercises if on bed rest Assist with ambulation, self-care as needed Encourage fluids if free of N/V Provide environmental safety measures, seizure precautions as indicated Reorient as needed Participate in development/ Interact in group sessions Psychiatrist Group sessions Understanding of current situation Drinking pattern, previous withdrawal, other drug use, attitudes toward substance use History of violence Relationships with others: personal, work/school Readiness for group activities Physical effects of ETOH abuse Types/use of relaxation techniques Consequences of ETOH abuse | Day 3–5 Day 3 Day 4 Day 4 Day 2–3 Day 3–5 Day 5 Day 3–5 Day 4–5 | Activity as tolerated Verbalize under-standing of relationship of ETOH abuse to current situation Identify/make contact with potential resources, support groups Community classes: Assertiveness training Stress management Previous coping strategies/ Perception of drug use on life, employment, legal issues Congruency of actions based on insight Naltrexone 50 mg/ day if indicated Human behavior and interactions with others/ transactional analysis (TA) Community resources for self/family | Day 5 Day 5 | Plan in place to meet needs postdischarge Medication dose, frequency, side effects Written instructions for therapeutic program |
Sample CP: Alcohol Withdrawal Program. ELOS: 5 Days Behavioral Unit (Continued)
ND and Cate- Time Time Time
gories of Care Dimension Goals/Actions Dimension Goals/Actions Dimension Goals/Actions
| Additional nursing actions Altered nutrition: less than body requirements R/T poor intake, effects of ETOH on digestive system, and hyper-metabolic response to withdrawal Referrals Diagnostic studies Additional assessments Medications Patient education Additional nursing actions | Day 1–5 Day 2–5 Day 1 and prn Day 1 Day 1 Day 1–2 Day 1–5 Day 1–5 Day 1–2 Day 1 Day 1–5 | Support patient’s taking responsibility for own recovery Provide consistent approach/ expectations for behavior Set limits/confront inappropriate behaviors Select foods appropriately to meet individual dietary needs Dietitian CBC, liver function studies Serum albumin, transferrin Weight, skin turgor, condition of mucous membranes, muscle tone Bowel sounds, characteristics of stools Appetite, dietary intake Antacid ac and hs Imodium 2 mg prn Individual nutritional needs Liquid/bland diet as tolerated Encourage small, frequent, nutritious meals/snacks Encourage good oral hygiene pc and hs | Day 2–5 Day 4 Day 2–5 Day 2–5 Day 4 Day 2–5 | Identify goals for change Discuss alternative solutions Provide positive feedback for efforts Support during confrontation by peer group Encourage verbalization of feelings, personal reflection Verbalize understandings of effects of ETOH abuse and reduced dietary intake on nutritional status Fingerstick glucose prn Multivitamin tab/qd Principles of nutrition, foods for maintenance of wellness Advance diet as tolerated | Day 5 Day 5 | Display stable weight or initial weight gain as appropriate, and laboratory results WNL Weight |
