Alcohol misuse: a detoxification project

The search for insight: Clients' psychological experiences of alcohol withdrawal in a voluntary, residential, health care setting

This study utilized a life history approach to describe clients' psychological experiences of the alcohol withdrawal process while voluntarily residing in a specialist alcohol withdrawal facility. Reflection on the past and anticipation of the future frequently occupied the thoughts of participants as they sought insight in to their lives. These insights were associated with a range of emotions that included embarrassment, shame, optimism, feelings of support and a sense of loss of control. The findings provide additional information on the human experience of alcohol withdrawal and, thus, increase empathy, understanding and knowledge. This increased understanding can be utilized to improve the quality of nursing care provided to this complex client group.

Residential alcohol detoxification: new role for mental health nurses

This article discusses the philosophy and practice of a community-based residential detoxification service for people with alcohol problems. The service is provided on a direct-access basis and has a team of 19 nurses who are supported by a GP practice. The article highlights issues relevant to nursing in this community facility by referring to three case studies. The case studies demonstrate that this client group finds it difficult to access other forms of health and social care. The case examples emphasize both the qualitative aspects of nursing care and the decision-making involved in this type of service. The authors suggest that large populations with complex needs can be served by nursing-led services adopting a 'direct access' approach.