A 46-year-old man with suspected alcohol withdrawal (CIWA-Ar 18) is tachycardic and tremulous 12 hours after his last drink. Best initial management?...

Question

A 46-year-old man with suspected alcohol withdrawal (CIWA-Ar 18) is tachycardic and tremulous 12 hours after his last drink. Best initial management?

Accepted Answer

Symptom-triggered benzodiazepines using a validated scale

Answer

IV haloperidol monotherapy

Answer

Clonidine only

Answer

Initiate antipsychotics and avoid benzodiazepines

Answer

Outpatient observation

Alcohol Withdrawal — MRCEM SBA MCQ