7665E Alcohol Use Disorder in the Correctional Setting-Alcohol WD CT DOC

Alcohol WD CT DOC

Pdf Summary

The document "Best Practices for Effective Alcohol Withdrawal Management: Intake Assessments and CIWA Scale Training for CT Dept of Corrections," by Andrea Jodat, outlines essential strategies for handling alcohol withdrawal in correctional settings. The project is funded in part by SAMHSA through grant no. 1H79TI085588-02. Key components discussed include comprehensive intake assessments, the use of the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol (CIWA) scale, and the pivotal role of nursing staff.<br /><br />The Opioid Response Network (ORN) offers tailored resources and technical assistance to communities facing opioid and stimulant use crises. It provides experienced consultants and accepts requests for educational and training support.<br /><br />The document emphasizes the importance of screening for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) using validated tools like the AUDIT-C and SASQ. These tools help in early detection, potentially reducing further harm. Positive screening results necessitate in-depth assessments and interventions using frameworks like SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) and motivational interviewing.<br /><br />Particular attention is given to the CIWA-Ar, a 10-item tool for assessing alcohol withdrawal severity. CIWA-Ar is crucial for guiding treatment and requires regular reassessment. Scoring informs medication management strategies, either scheduled dosing or symptom-triggered approaches, like using chlordiazepoxide.<br /><br />The guidelines also highlight supportive care measures such as nutritional supplementation (thiamine, folate), IV fluids for dehydration, and managing electrolyte imbalances. <br /><br />In conclusion, the document provides a structured approach to managing alcohol withdrawal in correctional facilities, emphasizing early detection, continuous assessment, and comprehensive care guided by validated tools and evidence-based practices.

Keywords

Alcohol Withdrawal Management

CIWA Scale

Intake Assessments

Correctional Settings

SAMHSA Grant

Nursing Staff

AUD Screening

SBIRT

Motivational Interviewing

Supportive Care