Name of the Procedure:

Common Name(s): Acute Detoxification, Residential Detox
Technical/Medical Term: Alcohol and/or Drug Services; Acute Detoxification (Residential Addiction Program Inpatient) (H0011)

Summary

Acute detoxification in a residential addiction program involves providing intensive medical supervision and treatment to help individuals safely withdraw from alcohol or drugs. This inpatient service focuses on stabilizing the patient physically and psychologically during the initial phase of recovery.

Purpose

Acute detoxification aims to:

• Address withdrawal symptoms from substances like alcohol, opioids, or other drugs.
• Stabilize the patient's physical and mental health.
• Prepare the patient for ongoing addiction treatment and recovery.

Indications

• Severe withdrawal symptoms necessitating constant monitoring.
• High risk of complications like seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), or severe psychological distress.
• Inability to safely detox at home due to a lack of support or presence of other medical conditions.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions: Patients may be advised to avoid substances prior to admission and inform the care team of all medications and health conditions.
• Diagnostic tests/assessments: Blood tests, urine screens, and physical examinations to assess overall health and substance levels.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment of medical history, substance use, and mental health.
2. Medical Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs and withdrawal symptoms.
3. Medications: Administration of medications to manage withdrawal symptoms (e.g., benzodiazepines for alcohol withdrawal).
4. Supportive Care: Hydration, nutrition, and general medical care.
5. Counseling: Initial counseling and support sessions to address psychological aspects of addiction.

Tools/Technology: IV fluids, ECG monitors, medication dispensers.
Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required.

Duration

Detoxification typically lasts between 3 to 7 days, depending on the substance and severity of addiction.

Setting

This procedure is performed in a specialized inpatient facility or a hospital-based residential addiction program.

Personnel

• Physicians specializing in addiction medicine.
• Registered nurses and nursing assistants.
• Mental health counselors and therapists.
• Support staff.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, temporary psychological distress.
• Rare Risks: Seizures, severe withdrawal symptoms, relapse, accidental overdose post-detox. Complications are managed through constant monitoring and appropriate medical interventions.

Benefits

• Safe withdrawal from substances under medical supervision.
• Reduced risk of severe complications.
• Foundation for long-term recovery through stabilization and initial treatment.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Gradual reduction of medications, ongoing psychological support.
• Expected Recovery Time: Physical stabilization in a week, but emotional and psychological recovery continues long-term.
• Restrictions/Follow-up: Participation in outpatient treatment programs, ongoing therapy, and follow-up appointments.

Alternatives

• Outpatient Detox: Less intensive and suitable for patients with mild withdrawal symptoms.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Long-term use of medications like methadone or buprenorphine.
• Pros and Cons: Outpatient detox offers flexibility but lacks intensive supervision. MAT helps manage cravings but requires adherence to medication.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Patients may experience varying withdrawal symptoms, managed with medication and support. Frequent monitoring and supportive care help minimize discomfort.
• After Procedure: Patients often feel physically better, but ongoing emotional and psychological support is crucial. Pain is managed through prescription as needed, and comfort measures like counseling are provided.

This document outlines the key aspects of Alcohol and/or drug services; acute detoxification (residential addiction program inpatient) (H0011). It aims to inform patients about the purpose, preparation, procedure, and what to expect during and after the process.