Delirium tremens requires medical management due to its potential severity. Which statement best reflects this?

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Sometimes true
• D. Not enough information

Answer: (B)

Delirium tremens is the most severe form of alcohol withdrawal and can be life-threatening, so it requires medical management to prevent serious complications. It can bring about severe agitation, autonomic instability (high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, fever), seizures, dehydration, and electrolyte or metabolic disturbances that can lead to cardiac problems or death. Because of these risks, patients with DTs are usually hospitalized for close monitoring and treated with appropriate interventions such as benzodiazepines to control agitation and prevent seizures, IV fluids and electrolyte correction, and thiamine supplementation to prevent Wernicke’s encephalopathy. This need for intensive, proactive treatment is why the statement is the best reflection of the situation.