A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing manifestations of alcohol withdrawal. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate the provider to prescribe?

Choice A reason : Cleaning dentures in a denture cup is a standard hygiene practice but does not directly address the low WBC count. While maintaining oral hygiene is important, it is not the most critical action related to the client's immunocompromised state⁶.

Choice B reason : Replacing the water in flower vases daily is a good practice to prevent bacterial growth; however, it is recommended to avoid having flowers or plants in the room of an immunocompromised patient due to the risk of exposure to fungi and bacteria⁷.

Choice C reason : Humidifying the room can be beneficial for respiratory comfort, but it must be done with caution in immunocompromised patients. Humidifiers need to be kept clean to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, which could be harmful to a patient with a low WBC count⁷.

Choice D reason : Serving cooked fruit with meals is the correct action because cooking fruit can eliminate potential pathogens that the client's compromised immune system may not be able to handle. Raw fruits and vegetables can harbor bacteria and other pathogens, so serving them cooked is a safer option for someone with a low WBC count⁶⁷.

Choice A reason : Methadone is an opioid used primarily for opioid maintenance therapy and to relieve severe pain, not typically for alcohol withdrawal. It does not address the specific symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal such as seizures or delirium tremens¹.

Choice B reason : Salicylates, such as aspirin, are not used to treat alcohol withdrawal. They can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in the gastrointestinal tract, which can be a concern in individuals with a history of heavy alcohol use¹.

Choice C reason : Benzodiazepines, such as chlordiazepoxide, are the first-line treatment for alcohol withdrawal. They help reduce the risk of seizures, ease withdrawal symptoms, and can prevent the progression to more severe forms of withdrawal such as delirium tremens¹².

Choice D reason : Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine with sedative properties, but it is not a first-line medication for alcohol withdrawal. While it may provide some sedation, it does not prevent seizures or other serious complications of alcohol withdrawal¹.