Recognizing and Caring for the Intoxicated Patient in an Outpatient Clinic

Recognizing an intoxication syndrome in patients presenting to an outpatient clinical practice with behavior or mental status change requires initial consideration of a broad differential diagnosis. After a thorough evaluation, management may include treatment of the presenting concern, triage to a higher level of care, and management substance withdrawal. Providers should be aware of the medico-legal aspects of caring for intoxicated patients related to privacy, informed consent, and risk of harm to self and others upon leaving clinic. An essential aspect of care for patients presenting to clinic intoxicated is the follow up assessment and management of substance use disorders.