Effectiveness of home detoxification: a clinical audit.

摘要

AIM: An audit of home detoxifications undertaken during a 2-year period in a community drug and alcohol service was performed to explore the impact of suitability criteria on the successful completion of the intervention, and to inform future practice. METHOD: A retrospective analysis of home detoxifications was undertaken in a community setting using a designed audit tool. RESULTS: Of the 154 referrals for home detoxification, 59 commenced detoxification and 95 did not. The absence of a suitable carer and a pre-existing medical-psychiatric condition were the main reasons for home detoxification being deemed an unsuitable intervention. Of those who commenced detoxification, 96.6% completed the programme. CONCLUSION: Clear and rigorous screening by an experienced professional before home detoxification is commenced is important to ensure positive treatment outcomes; however, more can be done to improve the service offered and ensure appropriate referrals.