@article{ref1,
title="Screening and Recording of Patients' Alcohol-use Habit by Clinicians in a Tertiary Accident and Emergency Unit in Ireland",
journal="Annals of medical and health sciences research",
year="2014",
author="Nkire, N. and Udoh, G. and Elahi, M. and Cotter, D. and MacHale, S.",
volume="4",
number="4",
pages="590-593",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Alcohol is widely consumed in Ireland; more so in major urban centers. Alcohol-related problems account for a significant number of Accident and Emergency (A and E) department presentations in Ireland. As a result, the national alcohol policy calls on doctors to be proactive in screening for and addressing alcohol misuse. <br><br>AIM: The aim of the following study is to determine if patients presenting to a tertiary North Dublin A and E were asked about their alcohol use habit and if it was recorded. <br><br>MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a descriptive observational study involving the retrospective review of case-notes for all patients who were assessed at the A and E Department of a North Dublin general hospital over a 1 week period for screening about their alcohol use habit. Data was entered into and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. <br><br>RESULTS: Only 17% (106/613) of the A and E attendees over the study period were asked about their alcohol use habit or had it recorded. No case-note examined documented use of alcohol screening instruments. <br><br>CONCLUSION: This study has revealed an inadequacy of enquiry about alcohol use habit. In light of high rates of alcohol misuse in Ireland we suggest the need for improved enquiry/screening and recording of alcohol use among all patients attending A and E's.<p /><p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="2141-9248",
doi="10.4103/2141-9248.139333",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.4103/2141-9248.139333"
}