Detox Detox Safety and Monitoring 2

Question 1

How often should CIWA-Ar scores typically be reassessed in a patient with moderate alcohol withdrawal?

Accepted Answer

Every 1–2 hours until stable

Answer

Moderate withdrawal requires frequent reassessment (every 1–2 hours) to detect rapid deterioration and adjust medication doses.

Question 2

What is the role of a 1:1 sitter or continuous observation in a detox unit?

Accepted Answer

To ensure patient safety, prevent elopement, and monitor for sudden deterioration

Answer

A continuous observer keeps high-risk detox patients safe from falls, self-harm, or sudden medical events, alerting staff immediately.

Question 3

Which medication reverses opioid toxicity in an emergency and is kept available in US detox settings?

Accepted Answer

Naloxone (Narcan)

Answer

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that rapidly reverses opioid-induced respiratory depression and is required emergency equipment in detox facilities.

Question 4

What is the significance of monitoring glucose levels in patients admitted for alcohol detox?

Accepted Answer

Alcoholics are prone to hypoglycemia due to glycogen depletion and poor nutrition

Answer

Chronic alcohol use depletes liver glycogen stores, and poor nutrition puts detox patients at risk for life-threatening hypoglycemia.

Question 5

What is the purpose of QTc interval monitoring in patients receiving certain detox medications?

Accepted Answer

To detect drug-induced cardiac arrhythmia risk

Answer

Some medications used in detox (e.g., methadone) can prolong the QTc interval, increasing risk of fatal torsades de pointes arrhythmia.

Detox Practice Test