The hospital treatment of alcoholism and drug addiction

Inpatient treatment of alcoholism is an option indicated by certain clinical criteria. The American Society of Addiction Medicine suggests four levels of care, and six assessment dimensions determine which level of care is indicated. An addiction medicine physician can consult with the primary care physician to recommend appropriate placement in difficult cases. Abstinence is a primary goal of treatment; for without abstinence, no other recovery will be possible. The remaining goals of recovery are detoxification, medical evaluation, stabilization of life-threatening emotional issues, education, identification of barriers to recovery, readjustment of behavior toward recovery, and orientation and membership in a self-help group. Successful family contributions can make the difference between success or failure of treatment goals; the role the family plays in recovery is discussed. Treatment for family members is important; the physical, emotional, and spiritual effects on family members can be just as profound on them as they are on the alcoholic. Continuing care maintains the link between the patient and the professional recovery community after discharge and is appropriate for all patients. Extended care allows for structured support of sobriety and often further progress through psychosocial issues identified during the initial treatment phase (i.e., abuse, molestation, unresolved grief). Extended care is indicated for patients requiring further structured assistance in early recovery. A large variety of treatment options are available once the decision has been made to hospitalize the patient.