- Educate healthcare providers on early recognition of signs and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including Delirium Tremens (DT), facilitating prompt intervention and prevention of severe complications.
- Establish a safe and supportive environment for individuals experiencing alcohol withdrawal, minimizing stimuli, and providing continuous monitoring to ensure patient safety and prevent harm.
- Train healthcare professionals in the appropriate use of pharmacological interventions, such as benzodiazepines, to manage symptoms and prevent the progression of alcohol withdrawal, including the onset of Delirium Tremens.
- Foster collaboration among healthcare disciplines, including physicians, nurses, psychologists, and social workers, to create a comprehensive care plan addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of alcohol withdrawal.
- Develop educational programs for patients and their families, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical help for alcohol withdrawal symptoms, the potential risks of Delirium Tremens, and the need for ongoing support during recovery.
Pathophysiology of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome / Delirium Tremens:
- Neurotransmitter Imbalance:
- Chronic alcohol use leads to adaptations in the central nervous system, causing an imbalance in neurotransmitters, particularly gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate. Sudden cessation results in heightened excitatory activity.
- With reduced inhibitory GABAergic activity and increased excitatory glutamatergic signaling, the CNS becomes hyperactive, contributing to symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, and seizures during alcohol withdrawal.
- Chronic alcohol exposure induces neuroadaptive changes, affecting receptors and neural circuits. Abrupt withdrawal disrupts these adaptations, triggering an array of symptoms, from mild withdrawal to severe manifestations like Delirium Tremens.
- Dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system occurs, leading to symptoms such as elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure, diaphoresis, and hyperthermia, reflecting the body’s response to the withdrawal process.
- In severe cases, the neuroexcitatory state can progress to Delirium Tremens, characterized by hallucinations, severe agitation, disorientation, and autonomic instability. The risk is higher in individuals with a history of heavy and prolonged alcohol use.
Etiology of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome / Delirium Tremens:
- Chronic Alcohol Use:
- The primary cause of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome (AWS) and Delirium Tremens (DT) is the abrupt cessation or significant reduction of alcohol consumption in individuals with a history of chronic and heavy alcohol use.
- Prolonged exposure to alcohol induces neuroadaptive changes in the central nervous system, altering the balance of neurotransmitters, particularly GABA and glutamate. Abrupt cessation disrupts this delicate balance, leading to withdrawal symptoms.
- Individual factors, such as genetic predisposition, coexisting medical conditions, and variations in alcohol metabolism, contribute to the variability in the severity and onset of alcohol withdrawal symptoms, including the risk of developing Delirium Tremens.
- Individuals with a history of recurrent alcohol withdrawal episodes are at an increased risk of developing severe symptoms, including Delirium Tremens, with each subsequent withdrawal period due to neuroadaptive changes and sensitization of the central nervous system.
- The sudden cessation of alcohol intake or a significant reduction in consumption triggers the onset of withdrawal symptoms. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including intentional efforts to quit, medical interventions, or periods of reduced access to alcohol.
Desired Outcome for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome / Delirium Tremens Nursing Care:
- Stabilization of Vital Signs:
- Achieve and maintain stable vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and body temperature, indicating successful management of autonomic dysregulation associated with alcohol withdrawal.
- Successfully prevent the occurrence of seizures through pharmacological interventions and careful monitoring, reducing the risk of complications and optimizing patient safety.
- Attain resolution of Delirium Tremens symptoms, including severe agitation, hallucinations, and disorientation, ensuring the patient’s return to a coherent and less agitated state.
- Enhance patient comfort and safety by creating a supportive environment, managing symptoms effectively, and preventing injury or harm associated with agitation and confusion during alcohol withdrawal.
- Establish the foundation for long-term recovery by initiating a comprehensive treatment plan, including counseling, support groups, and addressing underlying issues contributing to alcohol misuse, promoting sustained abstinence.
Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome / Delirium Tremens Nursing Care Plan
Subjective Data:
- Headaches
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Heart palpitations
- Nausea
- Hallucinations
- Sensory perception disturbances (visual impairment, crawling sensation on skin, hearing impairment)
- Inability to think clearly
Objective Data:
- Restlessness
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Vomiting
- Uncontrollable sweating
- Agitation
- Loss of or changes in level of consciousness
- Fever
- Cardiac dysrhythmias
- Hypertension
- Tachycardia
- Respiratory depression
Nursing Assessment for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome / Delirium Tremens:
- History of Alcohol Use:
- Obtain a detailed history of the patient’s alcohol use, including the amount and frequency of consumption, previous withdrawal episodes, and any history of Delirium Tremens. Assess for potential risk factors contributing to the severity of withdrawal.
- Conduct a thorough physical examination, focusing on vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, temperature), neurological status, and signs of autonomic dysregulation (diaphoresis, tremors, etc.).
- Assess the patient’s mental status, including orientation, attention, memory, and cognitive function. Monitor for signs of confusion, hallucinations, and severe agitation, which may indicate the onset of Delirium Tremens.
- Explore psychosocial factors contributing to alcohol use, withdrawal, and potential barriers to treatment. Assess the patient’s social support system and readiness for behavioral interventions.
- Evaluate the patient’s risk for seizures based on factors such as previous seizure history, the severity of alcohol use, and concurrent medical conditions. Implement preventive measures accordingly.
- Monitor fluid intake and output, assessing for signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalances. Severe vomiting, diarrhea, and poor oral intake can contribute to fluid and electrolyte disturbances.
- Utilize a standardized withdrawal symptoms checklist to systematically assess and quantify the severity of withdrawal symptoms. This aids in guiding pharmacological interventions and monitoring treatment effectiveness.
- Collaborate with the healthcare team, including physicians, psychologists, and social workers, to gather comprehensive information, develop a holistic care plan, and address the physical and psychosocial aspects of alcohol withdrawal.
Outcomes for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome / Delirium Tremens Nursing Care:
- Stable Vital Signs:
- Achieve and maintain stable vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and body temperature within normal ranges, indicating successful management of autonomic dysregulation.
- Prevent the occurrence of seizures through effective pharmacological interventions and monitoring, ensuring the patient’s safety and reducing the risk of complications.
- Attain resolution of severe symptoms associated with Delirium Tremens, such as agitation, hallucinations, and disorientation, leading to a more coherent and calmer mental state.
- Enhance patient comfort and safety by managing withdrawal symptoms effectively, reducing restlessness, and preventing injuries associated with severe agitation and confusion.
- Establish the foundation for long-term recovery by initiating a comprehensive treatment plan, including counseling, support groups, and addressing underlying issues contributing to alcohol misuse, promoting sustained abstinence.
Nursing Interventions and Rationales
- Perform complete nursing assessment and assess vital signs
Get a baseline to determine the effectiveness of interventions.
The sympathetic nervous system response may cause elevated temperature, high blood pressure, tachycardia, and severe respiratory depression.
- Determine stage of AWS
- Stage I – hyperactivity
- Stage II- hallucinations and seizure activity
- Stage III- DTs, confusion, fever and anxiety
Help determine appropriate interventions and prevent the progression of symptoms
- Perform 12-lead EKG per facility protocol
Monitor for cardiac dysrhythmias and irregularities.
- Monitor respiratory status and administer supplemental oxygen
Severe respiratory depression may occur and requires immediate intervention.
- Maintain patent airway and monitor for aspiration
Clients with vomiting and respiratory depression are at risk for aspiration. Advanced airway may be required.
- Initiate IV access and administer fluids
Vomiting may lead to dehydration and fluid imbalance. Maintain cardiac function and cardiac output.
- Monitor lab results and administer supplemental electrolytes as needed
Dehydration, diaphoresis, and vomiting may result in electrolyte imbalances that can cause cardiac dysrhythmias.
- Initiate seizure precautions per facility protocol
Seizures are often contributed to low magnesium, hypoglycemia or elevated blood alcohol levels.
Antiepileptic drugs are not indicated for seizures associated with AWS as they typically resolve spontaneously. Symptomatic treatment and safety are recommended.
- Provide calm and safe environment, free from clutter, noise and shadows
Sensory disturbances, hallucinations and confusion can lead to severe injury. Hallucinations often occur more at night and clients in advanced stages may experience anxiety and fear.
- Monitor client for signs of depression or suicidal ideation. Initiate suicide precautions as necessary per facility protocol
Confusion and anxiety may prompt client to attempt suicide or self-destruction.
- Provide isolation or restraints as necessary per facility protocol
During periods of excessive psychomotor activity, hallucinations and anxiety, restraints may be required temporarily to prevent harm to client or others.
- Reorient client to reality as often as needed in a calm and supportive manner
Confusion, anxiety and hallucinations may cause periods of delirium. Reorientation helps calm fears and relieve anxiety.
- Administer medications as appropriate and required
Anti-anxiety medications may be given to reduce hyperactivity and promote sleep.
- Benzodiazepines are also used to prevent seizures and manage severe tremors and withdrawal symptoms.
- Specifically lorazepam.
Antidepressants may be given to help client regain control of daily functioning and improve ability to concentrate and participate in therapy or counseling.
- Provide education and resources for client and family members
Resources, support groups and counseling services may help client and family members manage client’s needs going forward and help maintain relationships and daily functioning
Evaluation for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome / Delirium Tremens Nursing Care:
- Monitoring of Vital Signs:
- Continuously assess and evaluate vital signs, ensuring they remain stable within normal ranges. Any fluctuations or signs of instability should prompt immediate reassessment and adjustment of interventions.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of seizure prevention measures, including the administration of prescribed medications. The absence of seizures indicates successful management in this aspect.
- Assess the patient’s mental status and behavior to determine the resolution of Delirium Tremens symptoms. A reduction in severe agitation, hallucinations, and disorientation signifies positive progress.
- Evaluate the patient’s overall comfort and safety, ensuring that any interventions implemented to manage withdrawal symptoms do not compromise their well-being. Adjust safety measures as needed.
- Assess the patient’s readiness and willingness to engage in long-term recovery efforts, including participation in counseling, support groups, and addressing underlying issues contributing to alcohol misuse. Collaborate with the patient in developing a sustainable recovery plan.
References
- https://online.epocrates.com/diseases/54936/Alcohol-withdrawal/Diagnostic-Criteria
- https://www.healthline.com/health/alcoholism/withdrawal#diagnosis
- https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/alcohol-abuse/withdrawal-detox/#gref
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Example Nursing Diagnosis for Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome / Delirium Tremens
- Risk for Injury: Alcohol withdrawal can lead to seizures, delirium tremens, and falls, putting patients at risk for injuries. This diagnosis emphasizes injury prevention.
- Ineffective Coping: Patients undergoing alcohol withdrawal may struggle with emotional and psychological distress. This diagnosis addresses their coping abilities.
- Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements: Patients in alcohol withdrawal may have reduced oral intake, leading to malnutrition. This diagnosis focuses on nutritional needs.
Transcript
Hey guys, in this care plan, we will explore alcohol withdrawal syndrome in delirium tremens.
So, in this alcohol withdrawal syndrome care plan, we will cover the desired outcome, the subjective and objective data along with the nursing interventions and rationales. So, our medical diagnosis is alcohol withdrawal syndrome. So, alcohol withdrawal syndrome is a set of symptoms that occurs when a person suddenly slows down or stops drinking completely. Alcohol withdrawal includes delirium tremens, autonomic hyperactivity, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, psychomotor, agitation, anxiety and generalized tonic clonic seizures. After consuming alcohol regularly over a long period of time, the body becomes physically dependent on that substance. So, cessation or significant reduction in alcohol results in that alcohol withdrawal syndrome and delirium tremens, which causes significant distress or impairment in their lives.
So, the patient will maintain or regain an appropriate level of consciousness, have stable vital signs and the absence of hallucinations, the patient will remain free of injury and regain control of daily activities in functioning. This is all that we want when they leave the hospital.
Now, let's take a look at our care plan for alcohol withdrawal syndrome, starting with the subject of data. So, your patient is not going to be feeling very well ,at all. They're going to be having headaches. They're going to feel anxious. They might feel really confused. They might have some nausea or heart palpitations. All of this occurs because the body is so used to having the alcohol regularly depressing their CNS system. And so with the sudden withdrawal, the body is reacting very severely. Sometimes when the alcohol leaves the system, that confusion doesn't get any better. This is super concerning because they're lacking many vitamins that we usually get. Um, and they need that for their brain, right? So, the excessive alcohol intake was kind of preventing those nutrients from getting to the brain like it needed to.
So, we'll talk about interventions that will help with this later. Now, let's talk about the objective data. So, the lack of CNS depression can cause the patient to become really restless, agitated, and they might have tremors, which you usually can see. And if you can't, you can ask them to hold their hands out or even just kind of gently touch their hands and you'll feel the shakiness in their hands. Often the person detoxing is going to experience uncontrollable sweating, so you might have to change their sheets often. You might see some cardiac dysrhythmias on the EKG or telemetry as the body reacts to that lack of alcohol. Their vital signs are probably going to show some tachycardia and hypertension, which is usually treated with medications that actually treat the withdrawal, which we'll talk about later. So, seizures are a serious, serious side effect of withdrawal that some might have because of the effects on the brain.
Now, let's talk about the nursing interventions for alcohol withdrawal syndrome. So, you need to perform a complete assessment on this patient, including the vital signs. Pay really close attention to the patient's respiratory system. You want to make sure they're still breathing. You want to pay attention to their neurologic system, like that confusion or agitation, and you want to pay attention to their cardiac status, like that high blood pressure and that high heart rate, right?
So, these can all be severely affected with this withdrawal. Include any withdrawal questions that your organization uses per protocol. We'll talk about the CIWA Protocol later. So, this is going to help you to obtain a baseline and determine the stage and severity. Reassessing often, usually every three hours, will help you determine the effectiveness of the interventions.
There's different stages. So, stage one would include hyperactivity. Stage two includes hallucinations and seizure activity. Stage three includes DT’S, confusion, fever, and anxiety. So, you might think of this as mild, moderate, and severe. Maintain a patent airway and initiate oxygen as needed if their pulsox levels drop depending on what the doctor's orders say or the protocols. Be sure to ask questions per your facility protocol regarding the suicidal ideation. Why? Well, sometimes when these patients are coming off alcohol, they feel confused. They feel anxious, um, they just feel really not themselves, so they might start to have some suicidal ideations and experience some self-destructing ideas. So provide isolation as needed or restraints if necessary per facility protocol, to keep that patient and others safe.
So, it's really, really important to monitor the patient's heart for cardiac dysrhythmias and irregularities. First, initiate a 12 lead EKG to obtain a baseline, then put the patient on telemetry per doctor order or protocol, so that you can watch their heart on a regular basis.
Remember how I mentioned prolonged confusion in some patients after the alcohol wears off? So, this is called Wernicke Korsakoff Syndrome, and it's because of the lack of thiamine. So, this has to be treated immediately, or prevented by providing an IV banana bag, which is called the banana bag because it's yellow. It's actually full of vitamins that the brain needs. This is so that that confusion does not remain permanent. This can be really scary for family members because the patient is not usually confused. So, they're like what is going on? So, of course also consider IV hydration because this patient is probably dehydrated and you don't want to, um, promote any cardiac dysrhythmias. You should initiate seizure precautions, um, per protocol. This is so that you can prevent anything dangerous from occurring, like falling out of bed or choking on their own saliva, so, keep that suction at the bedside. If you need to, you can even provide a camera in the room. If they're known to have seizures a lot that way, you know, when to get in there and help. So, you want to provide a really calm and safe environment for these patients and reorient them as you need to. If they're confused, this is going to help decrease their anxiety and increase the safety of them. They already feel really sick and not themselves, so you want to help them to not feel so overstimulated. So, administer medications as appropriate and as ordered by the doctor.
So, my organization uses the CIWA Protocol, which I think many do. So this is to determine the dose of either the lorazepam or the diazepam, depending on which they choose based on the scores that we get after going through the questions. So, let me give you some examples of questions that we might ask the patient:
Do you feel anxious? And if so, how would you rate your anxiety from zero to 10?
Are you seeing, or hearing or feeling anything, um, unusual?
Do you feel restless?
Other parts of the CIWA Protocol are really just kind of objective. You can see them, for example, how badly are they sweating or shaking? Are there, um, vital signs off the charts? They have high blood pressure, you know, high heart rate. Um, so medications that we would use are going to help to reduce the hyperactivity. We're going to prevent seizures hopefully and promote their sleep. They also help to decrease the blood pressure and heart rate.
So, our last intervention is to provide education and resources for that patient and family, if they're there. So this is so important you guys, you need to help this patient with moving forward. What's going to happen when they leave the hospital? It's scary and it's hard for them. It's so, so hard for them to stop drinking for good. They need that support and guidance.
We love you guys! Now go out and be your best self today and as always, happy nursing.
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