A qualitative exploration of the experiences of transdermal alcohol sensor devices amongst alcohol service practitioners (South London, UK)

BackgroundA qualitative exploration into the views of alcohol service staff on transdermal alcohol sensors (TAS) within three alcohol services in South London, UK. This study aims to assess the acceptability and feasibility of TAS implementation in alcohol services to provide treatment in clinical settings and identify potential challenges and solutions from the perspective of service providers.MethodsTen participants, in a patient-facing role with alcohol-related treatment, completed a semi-structured interview.ResultsThree core theoretical themes guided the analysis: perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and attitudes toward use. Participants thought TAS could be useful as part of alcohol treatment in their service. They thought their service users may face some challenges using the TAS, (such as wearing the device; misplacing it, and/or remembering to remove and replace it for bathing). In general, participant attitudes toward TAS tended to be positive but there were some concerns about the cost and staff training. Participants believed their service users would be skeptical about wearing it, but that it could complement their treatment and motivate them toward their treatment goals.ConclusionResults support the acceptability and feasibility of TAS within alcohol services. Participants suggested potential methods of implementing TAS within their treatment plans which could benefit both staff and users. Participants were agreeable and willing to learn more about TAS including the practicalities of implementing TAS. TAS were seen as a potentially useful treatment facilitator, if implemented correctly with sufficiently motivated service users and if specific challenges were addressed. The first paper to interview clinical staff from alcohol-treatment services about transdermal alcohol sensors (TAS).Staff were positive about the implementation of TAS as a potential adjunct to alcohol treatment.Staff were skeptical about applicability and engagement with technology amongst some service users.Several practical ways to use TAS were suggested.