Inpatient detoxification is essential when a person is withdrawing from drugs or alcohol because withdrawal can be dangerous. In an inpatient detoxification facility in Ary clients are closely observed for withdrawal symptoms that could cause health risks or even death in more serious instances. Someone with alcoholism for example will need to be watched closely and probably given certain prescription medications which will prevent seizures and delirium tremens. Prescription benzodiazepine withdrawal is another example that could cause very similar withdrawal effects, and medical professionals in the inpatient detoxification facility can keep them safe.
There isn't an exact practice for each client in detox, because of the unique health differences that each individual exhibits when entering the detoxification facility. Someone who is otherwise physically and mentally healthy may be in detox for 4 or 5 days and be discharged without much intervention, while another person may require comprehensive care and intervention for a couple weeks. Medical safety is of the highest concern, as well as a transition to treatment for clients who should to take part in an actual drug and alcohol rehabilitation program once detoxification is complete. Most detoxification facilities work with drug rehab facilities to make this transition possible, since detox is only the first step in a much more comprehensive treatment plan for recovering addicts.