Abstract

Approximately 40% of traffic fatalities are alcohol-related. Alcohol use has been described as the single most common preventable cause of trauma; identification and referral for intervention becomes a responsibility of the healthcare provider in this patient population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate patients admitted following a motor vehicle crash (MVC) for the presence of alcohol and if referrals for alcohol intervention were made. A retrospective review of 154 randomly selected charts from a Level One trauma center was conducted. The charts were examined for documentation of blood alcohol level (BAL), and treatment/intervention referral. Evidence of BAL and intervention/referral were 79% and 6.5% respectively. No significant relationship was found between BAL and intervention. Of the patient's without a documented BAL, 21% received treatment for alcohol withdrawal. Study results indicate the need for a concerted effort to identify and refer those at risk to ensure improved patient outcomes.