Step II. Assess for Alcohol-Related Problems

Patients who screen positive should be assessed to determine the nature and extent of their alcohol-related problems. Use the assessment procedures described below to determine problem severity, as follows:

1. At increased risk for developing alcohol-related problems,
2. Currently experiencing alcohol-related problems, or
3. May be alcohol dependent

 

1. At increased risk for developing alcohol-related problems

bullet.gif Indicators

drinking above recommended low-risk consumption levels or in high-risk situations
bullet.gifpersonal or family history of alcohol-related problems

 bullet.gifAssessment procedures

bullet.gif Ask about typical drinking patterns:

bullet.gif How long have you been drinking this amount?
bullet.gifHow many times in a week (or month) do you have four or more drinks on one occasion?
bullet.gifWhat is the most you have consumed on one occasion during the past year?
bullet.gifAsk about personal and family history: Have you or anyone in your immediate family ever had a drinking problem?

 


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