Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol-Revised (CIWA-Ar)

Definition

The Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol-Revised (CIWA-Ar) is a tool used by healthcare professionals to assess and manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It helps determine the severity of withdrawal and guides treatment decisions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CIWA-Ar includes 10 items that evaluate symptoms such as nausea, tremors, sweats, anxiety, agitation, tactile disturbances, auditory disturbances, visual disturbances, headache, and orientation.
2. Scoring on the CIWA-Ar ranges from 0 to 67; higher scores indicate more severe withdrawal symptoms.
3. A total score of less than 8 suggests mild withdrawal, while a score between 8-15 indicates moderate withdrawal needing pharmacological intervention.
4. Scores above 15 require immediate medical attention due to the risk of severe complications like seizures or delirium tremens.
5. Common medications administered based on CIWA-Ar scores include benzodiazepines like diazepam or lorazepam.

Review Questions

• What does a high CIWA-Ar score indicate?
• Which symptoms are assessed in the CIWA-Ar?
• What is the typical pharmacological intervention for moderate alcohol withdrawal according to CIWA-Ar?

Related terms

Delirium Tremens (DTs): A severe form of alcohol withdrawal involving sudden and severe mental or nervous system changes.

Benzodiazepines: A class of medications commonly used to treat anxiety and seizures; often used in managing alcohol withdrawal.

Withdrawal Symptoms: Physical and mental effects that occur after stopping or reducing intake of a substance such as alcohol.