Substance Abuse: CNS Depressants

Question 1

CNS Depressant Categories

Answer 1

Alcohol, Benzodiazepines, Inhalants, Barbituates

Question 2

CNS Depressant Signs of Use

Answer 2

Slurred Speech, Incoordiation, Depressed VS, Loss of Inhibition, Ataxia, Impairement of Attention and Memory, Stupor, Death from Respiratory Depression

Question 3

CNS Depressants: Signs of Withdrawal:

Answer 3

* Withdraral S/S are OPPOSITE from the effects of the drug* With use the CNS Depressants CALM the CNS, with Withdrawal, CNS Depressants EXCITE the CNS

Increased VS (Increased BP can lead to stroke), Tremor (can lead to seizure/death), N/V, Agitation, Restlessness, Anxiety, Insomnia, Visual-Tactile-Auditory hallucinations

Question 4

CNS Depressant Withdrawal Tx

Answer 4

treated c Benzodiazepines for several days. In case of benzodiazepine addiction, the same dose patient is addicted to is given then tapered off over weeks to months. The goal of tx of CNS Depressant Withdrawal is to prevent seizures and stroke. patient’s S/S monitored c CIWA Protocol