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Substance abuse and the trauma patient

Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, PL6 8DH, UK, henry.guly{at}phnt.swest.nhs.uk

Alcohol and other drugs of abuse are often associated with trauma. Alcohol and other drugs have an effect on patients’ behaviour, their vital signs, conscious level and pupils. IV drug abusers may have difficult venous access and may carry blood borne infections. Drug dependent patients are at risk of withdrawal symptoms which need to be recognized and treated. Acute intoxication may make the diagnosis of brain (and other) injuries difficult and chronic alcoholism may be associated with a variety of medical problems which may complicate the management of trauma and which lead to increased mortality. It is important not just to treat the injuries but to recognize the underlying substance abuse so that help can be offered and future injuries avoided.

Key Words: alcohol • substance abuse • trauma • vital signs

Trauma, Vol. 6, No. 3, 205-210 (2004)
DOI: 10.1191/1460408604ta315oa


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