Step IV: Monitor Patient Progress

Monitor patient progress in the same way you manage other chronic medical problems, such as hypertension or diabetes. Recognize that behavior change is an incremental process that often involves trial and error. Patient management strategies include the following:

Indicate that you (or designated staff) are available to provide ongoing assistance and support.

Support your patient's efforts to cut down or abstain at each subsequent visit by:

-- reviewing progress to date
-- commending your patient for efforts made
-- reinforcing positive change
-- assessing continued motivation

 Consider scheduling a separate followup visit or telephone call, as appropriate, if the patient needs additional support.

Consider referring a selected patient whose counseling needs exceed the services provided in a primary care setting.

 For patients who have been advised to abstain or have been referred for alcohol treatment:
-- Ask to receive periodic updates from the treatment specialist on your patient's treatment plan and prognosis.
-- Monitor symptoms of depression and anxiety (if possible). Such symptoms may occur, but they often decrease or disappear after 2 to 4 weeks of abstinence.

 

 

The 4 steps that should be included in screening and brief intervention procedures are: a. Ask, Assess, Advise and Record b. Ask, Treat, Medicate and Advise c. Ask, Assess, Advise and Monitor d. Assess, Quiz, Monitor and Treat

 

toc | return to top | previous page | next page