💊 NCLEX-RN Exam Prep

A patient with a history of alcohol use disorder is admitted and starts experiencing tremors, increased heart rate, and anxiety approximately 12 hours after their last drink. What is the nurse's priority intervention for this patient?

A Administer an opioid analgesic to reduce anxiety.
B Provide a high-carbohydrate meal to stabilize blood sugar.
C Administer a prescribed benzodiazepine as ordered.
D Encourage ambulation to promote circulation.

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Benzodiazepines are the treatment of choice for alcohol withdrawal to prevent progression to more severe symptoms like seizures and delirium tremens, which can be life-threatening.

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