The management of alcohol withdrawal.
Alcohol withdrawal is a common condition which often complicates intercurrent illness. Its severity and course are determined largely by the setting in which it occurs. This article discusses the history, pathophysiology, pathogenesis and principles of the treatment of alcohol withdrawal. The importance of environment and basic nursing care are stressed and the use of drugs is discussed. A withdrawal assessment scale is also included.
D000437:Alcoholism / Q000150:complications*; D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002719:Chlormethiazole / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003975:Diazepam / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000431:Ethanol / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D009732:Nursing Care; D011937:Reality Therapy; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*
D002719:Chlormethiazole; D001569:Benzodiazepines; D000431:Ethanol; D003975:Diazepam