Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale in the emergency department

Abstract

<p>Background and Review of Literature: Alcohol dependence is a problem nationwide and is often underreported by patients in a healthcare setting. People who suffer from alcohol dependence are likely to experience alcohol withdrawal if they suddenly cease alcohol consumption. The Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale (PAWSS) is a tool which can identify a patient at risk for alcohol withdrawal. Purpose: The purpose of the project was to screen patients being admitted from the emergency department utilizing PAWSS to identify those at risk for alcohol withdrawal.</p> <p>Methods: The scores would then be examined within a retrospective chart review on patients screened to determine validity and reliability of the tool.</p> <p>Implementation Plan/Procedure: The project was not implemented due to safety concerns during a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Had implementation occurred, this quality improvement project could have potentially contributed to a decreased the incidence of acute alcohol withdrawal in hospitalized patients.</p> <p>Implications/Conclusion: Protection of healthcare workers and patients was priority over a research project during the current time period. The project could be replicated for future use at a more appropriate time. </p>