2d • Paramedic Talk
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy
A neurological emergency caused by severe thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency.
Most commonly seen in:
- Alcohol use disorder
- Malnutrition
- Hyperemesis gravidarum
- Bariatric surgery patients
- Dialysis patients
- Eating disorders
⚠️ The Classic Triad (NREMTP loves this)
Only 10–20% of patients show all three, but you must know them:
1. Confusion
2. Ataxia (unsteady gait)
3. Oculomotor dysfunction
- Nystagmus
- Lateral rectus palsy
- Ophthalmoplegia
🚑 EMS / Clinical Clues
- AMS
- Staggering gait or unable to walk
- Horizontal nystagmus
- History of alcohol abuse or poor nutrition
- Hypothermia
- Hypotension
- Memory problems
🔥 Critical EMS Treatment
Give thiamine before glucose.
Glucose administration without thiamine can worsen WE by accelerating thiamine consumption.
Dose:
- 100 mg IV/IM thiamine (commonly available in EMS kits)
0
0 comments
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy
skool.com/rescueacademy
Calling ALL future EMTs & Paramedics. Let's PASS the National Registry on the FIRST attempt.
Leaderboard (30-day)
1
+2
2
+1
Powered by