CIWA
Pronunciation: SEE-wah
Also written as: CIWA — Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol
Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol - a standardized scale used to monitor and manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms in medical settings.
Full Definition
The CIWA protocol provides a systematic approach to assessing alcohol withdrawal severity through standardized scoring of symptoms including tremor, anxiety, nausea, sweating, and hallucinations. Healthcare providers use CIWA scores to guide medication administration, typically benzodiazepines, and determine appropriate levels of monitoring. Scores range from 0-67, with higher scores indicating more severe withdrawal requiring intensive intervention. The scale is essential in emergency departments, medical units, and detoxification facilities. Editors must ensure CIWA scores are documented correctly and that medication protocols align with institutional guidelines.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as CIWA. Include numerical scores when documented. Distinguish from COWS (opioid withdrawal).
In Context
- "CIWA score of 12 at 0800 hours prompted administration of lorazepam per protocol." — Nursing documentation
- "The facility's CIWA protocol requires assessment every four hours during the first 48 hours." — Policy documentation