What is a defining feature of the COWS scales?

The COWS scale, which stands for Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale, is specifically designed to assess the severity of opiate withdrawal symptoms. This tool is utilized in clinical settings to help healthcare providers evaluate how intense a patient's withdrawal symptoms are when they are discontinuing the use of opioids. The scale includes several key symptoms that are commonly associated with opioid withdrawal and offers a structured way to quantify these symptoms.

In contrast to other options, the COWS scale does not address alcohol dependence, focusing exclusively on opiate withdrawal. It is also not designed to evaluate general withdrawal symptoms across all substances or solely mental health disorders, which indicates its specific application in the substance use realm, particularly concerning opioids. Understanding the particular focus of the COWS scale is crucial for accurately monitoring and managing patients undergoing opiate withdrawal.