A randomised controlled trial to investigate the effectiveness of a brief psychological intervention used as an adjunct to a home detoxification programme

• Main Author: Alwyn, C.
• Published: Swansea University 2001
• Subjects: 616.89
• Online Access: http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.635771

Home detoxification is a recognised method of treating problem drinkers within their home environment and, therefore, eliminating many of the problems associated with a hospital admission. The aim of this research is to determine whether a relatively brief psychological intervention can add to the effectiveness of such a service. Community Psychiatric Nurses were trained to administer the brief psychological intervention that involved motivational interviewing, coping skills and social support. A manual was developed in order to standardise the training and implementation. Training was carried out in a half-day workshop at each site. Baseline and outcome assessments included measures of alcohol consumption, days abstinent, alcohol-related problems, severity of dependence, desire to drink, drinking situations, social support and satisfaction, health care utilisation, self-esteem, perception of health as well as demographic data. Outcomes measured at the 3-month and 12-month follow-up indicate that the psychological intervention resulted in significant positive changes in alcohol consumption, abstinent days, social satisfaction, self-esteem and alcohol-related problems. A step-wise regression analysis indicated that the best predictors of outcome were alcohol related problems, confidence in remaining abstinent in drinking situations and self esteem. A cost analysis confirmed that the psychological intervention resulted in wide ranging health service benefits and was a ninth of the cost of inpatient treatment. It was concluded that home detoxification is safe and effective for all drinkers, including those who are severely dependent. Recommendations included that this psychological intervention be integrated into normal practice.