Delirium Tremens Flashcards
1
Q
Clinical signs of DT
A
Tachycardia
Fevers
HTN
diaphoresis
Hallucinations
agitation
2
Q
Onset of DT (Time)
A
48-96hrs from last drink
3
Q
How long does DT last
A
approximately 5-10 days
But in ICU it is seen to be weeks!
4
Q
What causes death from DT
A
Not DT itself…
Tachycardia and Electrolyte imbalances like hypoMg/hypoP which can cause arrhythmia/dysthymia
Aspiration PNA
The effects of abusing alcohol itself:
-worsening pancreatitis leading to ARDS
-sepsis from necrotizing pancreatitis/decompensated cirrhosis(sbp)
5
Q
**INCOMPLETE*
meds for DT
A
Antipsychotics
-Scheduled seroquel, prn haldol
benzos(abortive) & Librium(preventative)
Central Alpha-2 receptor agonist
-PRECEDEX
-Clonidine
