Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

The patient's symptoms suggest alcohol withdrawal syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, confusion, tremors, and sweating after cessation of heavy and prolonged alcohol use. Administering benzodiazepines is considered the most appropriate initial treatment to manage withdrawal symptoms, prevent progression to severe complications like seizures and delirium tremens, and stabilize the patient's condition. Naloxone is used for opioid overdoses and would not be appropriate without evidence of opioid use. Thiamine is important to prevent Wernicke's encephalopathy but does not directly address withdrawal symptoms. IV fluids may support hydration but do not specifically treat withdrawal symptoms.