Chronic alcohol abuse in elderly surgical patients

Case Study of Hip Fracture in an Older Person

“…Alcohol abuse and dependency is estimated to exist in 10% to 15% of people aged 60 years and older (Bailes, 1997;Mattox, 1994;Ruppert, 1996). Effects of alcohol are greater in older adults, whose changes in body mass (decreased total body water and increased body fat) and decreased absorption result in similar amounts of alcohol causing greater intoxication.…”

“…No specific laboratory test will diagnose alcohol abuse; however, some lab tests can aid in detection of chronic alcohol abuse. Several laboratory tests detect hepatic damage and injury to the production of red blood cells, both of which are indicators of chronic alcohol abuse (Bailes, 1997). Of the liver enzymes, the gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) is the most sensitive indicator of alcoholism.…”

“…The cause of alcohol withdrawal is the result of cortical and beta-adrenergic hyperexcitability (Bailes, 1997). The severity of symptoms depends on the severity of physical dependency.…”

“…Alcohol withdrawal can be divided into three different categories or stages. Table 2 summarizes these various stages (Andreoli, Carpenter, Griggs, & Loscalzo, 2001;Bailes;Haskell, Frankel, & Rotondo, 1997;Ruppert, 1996).…”

“…Note. Andreoli, Carpenter, Griggs, & Loscalzo, 2001;Bailes, 1997;Haskell, Frankel, & Rotondo, 1997;Ruppert, 1996. drawal psychosis occurs, haloperidol can be added to the treatment plan; however, a side effect of haloperidol in the older adult may be delirium (Andreoli et al;Kelley, 1996;Ruppert, 1996). During withdrawal, a safe environment should be maintained for the patient.…”