Abstract
Predictors of outcome of in-patient opiate detoxification and abstinence at 3-month follow-up were investigated using a prospective design. 70 individuals admitted to an in-patient Unit were interviewed at admission to the Unit, and outcome status at three months was ascertained for 89% of participants. A variety of baseline distal or personal measures were taken at admission. Intermediate or background measures were taken at admission, discharge and at 3-month follow-up. 59% of participants successfully completed in-patient detoxification. None of the distal or intermediate measures predicted successful completion of detoxification. The best predictor of completion of in-patient detoxification was key worker ratings of confidence that their client would complete the detoxification. Of those with a known outcome, 45% were abstinent from opiates or opioids at 3-month follow-up. None of the distal or intermediate measures predicted outcome at 3-month follow-up, although there was evidence that higher client coping self-efficacy (as measured by the DTCQ-8) at admission and at discharge, related to outcome status at three months. The best predictors of abstinence at 3-month follow-up were key worker ratings of confidence in their client's ability to remain abstinent, taken at discharge from the Unit, and the client going to a residential treatment centre. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed.