Introducing an in-patient treatment for alcohol detoxification into a community setting.
Alcohol detoxification in the UK is not standardized and treatment is usually determined by local policies. Drug regimens are often predetermined and unrelated to the extent and duration of dependence, recent consumption, or previous withdrawal symptoms. Diazepam loading shortens the detoxification period and avoids the indiscriminate use of medication. It has been shown to be effective as an in-patient treatment. This paper examines the feasibility of introducing diazepam loading in a community setting, and discusses the implications that this would have for clinical practice.
Williams
S
S
The Community Addiction Unit, Cardiff Royal Infirmary, UK. Spwilliams@btinternet.com
D000041:Absenteeism; D000437:Alcoholism / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing*; D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003152:Community Health Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D017281:Cost of Illness; D003975:Diazepam / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D006302:Health Services Research; D006699:Home Care Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012449:Safety; D012944:Social Support; D016320:Substance Abuse Treatment Centers / Q000458:organization & administration*; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing*; D006113:United Kingdom
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D003975:Diazepam