Clinical characteristics and outcomes of adult patients admitted to acute care settings for alcohol withdrawal syndrome

Background: Alcohol consumption is associated with significant morbidities such as liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Addressing acute alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) effectively is essential to improving the health outcomes of individuals with alcohol use disorders. This study aims to evaluate AWS management practices and outcomes, with a focus on symptom severity, treatment protocols, and factors associated with prolonged or complicated hospital stays.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed medical records of patients admitted to Hazm Mebaireek General Hospital (HMGH) with AWS between November 1, 2018, and October 31, 2021. Parameters assessed included demographic details, symptom severity using scales like Cushman’s and SOFA, benzodiazepine treatment protocols, and outcomes such as length of stay, ICU admissions, and mortality.

Results: A total of 98 male patients were included, with a mean age of 39.9 ± 9.7 years. Among these, 51% were Indian nationals, followed by Nepalese (33%). Symptoms ranged from nausea (33%) to agitation (36%) and tremors (67%). Severity levels of AWS varied, with 59% experiencing mild symptoms, 34% moderate, and 7% severe. Fixed-dose and symptom-triggered benzodiazepine regimens were applied inconsistently, often deviating from recommended guidelines. Complications included seizures in 14% of cases and ICU admissions in 4%. The average hospital stay was 4.7 ± 5.1 days.

Conclusion: AWS predominantly affects young males, with a significant burden on healthcare resources. Treatment strategies often diverged from international guidelines, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols to improve care quality and reduce variability in outcomes.