CARN Addiction Assessment & Diagnosis 3

Question 1

Which withdrawal syndrome is considered the most medically dangerous and potentially life-threatening?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol withdrawal

Answer

Alcohol withdrawal can progress to delirium tremens with seizures and autonomic instability, making it potentially fatal without treatment.

Question 2

A nurse uses the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS). A score of 25 indicates which severity level?

Accepted Answer

Severe withdrawal

Answer

On the COWS, a score of 25 falls in the severe withdrawal range (scores ≥25 = severe).

Question 3

Which DSM-5 specifier indicates that a patient with substance use disorder has been abstinent for more than 12 months?

Accepted Answer

In sustained remission

Answer

Sustained remission is specified when no SUD criteria have been met for 12 months or longer.

Question 4

Which finding on the CIWA-Ar scale would most urgently prompt a nurse to administer as-needed benzodiazepines?

Accepted Answer

Score of 18 with agitation and perceptual disturbances

Answer

A CIWA-Ar score of 18 with agitation and perceptual disturbances indicates severe withdrawal requiring immediate pharmacological intervention.

Question 5

Motivational interviewing (MI) is based on which theoretical foundation?

Accepted Answer

Transtheoretical model and person-centered counseling

Answer

MI integrates the transtheoretical model's stages of change with Carl Rogers' person-centered, empathic counseling approach.

(CARN) Certified Addictions Registered Nurse Practice Test