Managing Alcohol Withdrawal: Expert Advice and Compassionate Care
Episode Overview
The prevalence of high-risk drinking and alcohol use disorder in Canada underscores the need for comprehensive care Insights from clinical nurse specialist Avee Khela shed light on withdrawal management pathways and clinical options The Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale (PAWS) tool plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate withdrawal management pathway Continuity in alcohol use disorder care, compassionate support, and tailored approaches are essential for holistic patient well-being Sandra Stewart's lived experience highlights the challenges and stigmas surrounding alcohol use disorder, emphasizing the need for non-judgmental care
The purpose of withdrawal management is to alleviate symptoms and potential medical complications of withdrawal, make the patient as comfortable as possible during this process, and transition to continuing care if appropriate, as well as to support the patient's goals around alcohol consumption or cessation.
How do you safely manage alcohol withdrawal? In this episode of Addiction Practice Pod, Dr. Marcus Greatheart and David Ball team up with clinical nurse specialist Avee Khela to tackle this critical question. They kick things off by discussing the prevalence of high-risk drinking and alcohol use disorder in Canada, setting the stage for a deeper dive into withdrawal management strategies.
Avee breaks down the various pathways for managing withdrawal, explaining how the Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale (PAWS) tool helps clinicians tailor care to individual needs. This episode doesn’t just stop at the technical aspects; Sandra Stewart shares her lived experience, shedding light on the real-world challenges and stigmas that people face. Her story underscores the need for empathy and non-judgmental support throughout the recovery process.
For healthcare providers, this episode offers a wealth of practical advice and heartfelt insights, making it an invaluable resource for those committed to improving patient care in addiction treatment.