Admission Criteria and Patient Placement Guidelines for Ambulatory Alcohol Medical Detoxification

Ambulatory medical detoxification for alcohol has become increasingly more popular in the last several years as a cost-effective alternative to inpatient withdrawal. Critical research has demonstrated both effectiveness and safety for carefully selected patients. This article will review admission criteria for ambulatory detoxification programs including: general, drug, medical, psychological, and social. Further, I will detail patient management guidelines that are unique to ambulatory care. These guidelines will summarize the initial assessment, supportive care, medication management, and follow-up. The guidelines help assure a safe withdrawal from alcohol in an ambulatory setting.