Nursing care of the patient undergoing alcohol detoxification

Abstract

Nurses are challenged with the task of holistic care for the alcohol dependent patient. The objective of the study was to explore and describe the opinions of male patients regarding the holistic care in a selected detoxification unit in Gauteng. A quantitative, explorative and descriptive design was employed utilizing interviews with a structured questionnaire as method of data collection. After the data was analysed (frequencies were used) the results were presented according to the five client variables of the Neuman Systems Model. Positive and negative results on the physiological, psychological, socio cultural, developmental and spiritual needs of the client were identified. This article aims at identifying crucial holistic aspects of nursing care of the alcohol dependent patient.