Delirium Tremens Flashcards
1
Q
What is delirium tremens?
A
Syndrome of delirium, autonomic activation, and agitation
2
Q
What causes delirium tremens?
A
Acute detoxification from alcohol
3
Q
Why is delirium tremens a problem?
A
Terrifying
Potentially life-threatening
- 35% mortality rate if untreated
4
Q
What can delirium tremens progress to?
A
Seizures
Cardiac arrythmias
5
Q
What can be done to prevent damage in these patients and what may be seen?
A
Careful monitoring of vital signs
- they can have precipitous drops in BP
6
Q
Treatment of delirium tremens?
A
Benzodiazepines - e.g. chlordiazepoxide
