Alcohol Use Disorders in the Emergency Ward
Author Information
Author(s): Richoux Charlotte, Ferrand Isabelle, Casalino Enrique, Fleury Benoit, Ginsburg Christine, Lejoyeux Michel
Primary Institution: Hopital Maison Blanche, Paris, France
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of alcohol use disorders among patients in the emergency department and how do different assessment scales compare?
Conclusion
9.5% of patients in the emergency department have alcohol abuse or dependence, highlighting the need for systematic identification.
Supporting Evidence
- 9.5% of patients met the DSM-IV criteria for alcohol use disorders.
- The CAGE questionnaire was less sensitive but more specific than the AUDIT.
- Patients with alcohol use disorders were often young men brought in by police.
Takeaway
About 1 in 10 people who go to the emergency room have a problem with alcohol, and many don't ask for help.
Methodology
The study used the CAGE and AUDIT questionnaires along with structured interviews to assess alcohol use disorders.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from excluding patients unable to answer due to intoxication.
Limitations
Some patients were excluded due to high alcohol intoxication, and the study only included patients assessed during specific hours.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily adults aged 18 and over, with a higher prevalence of men and unemployed individuals among those with alcohol use disorders.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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