Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

During alcohol withdrawal, a nurse should assess for which symptom in a newly admitted client?

1. Euphoria

2. Diaphoresis

3. Anxiety

4. Vomiting

The correct answer is: Diaphoresis

During alcohol withdrawal, it is essential for the nurse to monitor for a variety of symptoms, with diaphoresis being a prominent indicator. Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, typically occurs due to the body's autonomic response to the absence of alcohol, reflecting heightened sympathetic nervous system activity. This symptom is often associated with the body's struggle to regain homeostasis after a sudden discontinuation of alcohol intake. Although anxiety is also a common symptom during alcohol withdrawal, it is not as distinctive as diaphoresis. Symptoms like euphoria may occur in some cases unrelated to withdrawal, as users may experience a range of emotional states. Vomiting, while a possible symptom of withdrawal, is less frequent compared to sweating. Therefore, the presence of diaphoresis not only serves as a crucial sign for nurses assessing withdrawal severity but also helps guide the appropriate response and management of the client's condition during this critical phase.