Delirium tremens usually begins how many days after surgery?

• A. 0-1 days
• B. 4-5 days
• C. 2-3 days
• D. 6-7 days

Answer: (C)

Delirium tremens after surgery most commonly appears about 48 to 72 hours after the last alcohol intake. This timing reflects how alcohol withdrawal progresses: initial symptoms can begin within 6–24 hours, but delirium tremens—marked by severe confusion, autonomic instability, tremors, and potential hallucinations—typically peaks around two to three days. In the perioperative setting, the physiological stress of surgery can still align with this 2–3 day window, making it the usual timeframe.

So the best answer is two to three days. Starting earlier (0–1 day) is unlikely for delirium tremens itself, while later windows (4–5 or 6–7 days) are less characteristic, though individual variability with withdrawal exists.