Asked by Austin Kreis on Oct 01, 2024

A patient admitted for injuries sustained while intoxicated has been hospitalized for 48 hours. The patient is now shaky, irritable, anxious, diaphoretic, and reports nightmares. The pulse rate is 130 beats/minute. The patient shouts, "Bugs are crawling on my bed. I've got to get out of here." Select the most accurate assessment of this situation. The patient

A) is attempting to obtain attention by manipulating staff.
B) may have sustained a head injury before admission.
C) has symptoms of alcohol withdrawal delirium.
D) is having an acute psychosis.

Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium

A severe form of alcohol withdrawal characterized by confusion, rapid heartbeat, fever, and seizures; it is a medical emergency.

Acute Psychosis

A mental state characterized by a disconnect from reality, which may include hallucinations and delusions, and is of sudden onset.

  • Implement relevant nursing measures for patients suffering from hallucinations or delusions triggered by substance intake.