The six facts supporting home (community) detoxification are
Evidence suggests that the majority of individuals experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms do not require hospitalisation. However, it should be stressed that a few, a minority, do, because of severe medical consequences of alcohol withdrawal. Whilst this is the exception, rather than the rule, hospitalisation for this small group remains an integral component of treatment during alcohol withdrawal.
Few people experiencing alcohol withdrawal require medication or specialist medical intervention. Of 1114 consecutive admissions to an alcohol detoxification unit, all but 90 were treated with vitamin therapy and supportive care. In a study of 5000 individuals who experienced alcohol withdrawal, only 51 required admission to hospital.
Alcohol withdrawal at home (community) is safe; acceptable to the individual concerned and the family; and is more cost-effective than hospitalisation.
Alcohol detoxification management is only the first stage in any treatment intervention. As a stand alone treatment, it is seldom sufficient to maintain any long-term lifestyle change. Therefore, it is only part of the process, during which adjustments may be necessary to maintain short- and long-term goal(s)
Further treatment and interventions are essential post detoxification to assist the client to achieve the long-term goal(s). Stage two is rehabilitation and follow-up and stage three, maintenance.The time spent in each stage depends on the individuals level of dependence (physical and psychological), motivation to change, and social and environment factors.
A fundamental concept is that those individuals referred for treatment during alcohol withdrawal receive a thorough assessment. An holistic and eclectic assessment needs to address two key questions:
Is there a need for any medication to alleviate withdrawal symptoms?
IF YES: Are there any reasons for not keeping the individual within the home environment for detoxification?
