CARN Managing Co-Occurring Disorders 3

Question 1

A patient with PTSD and alcohol use disorder is most at risk for relapse when:

Accepted Answer

Experiencing trauma triggers or PTSD symptom exacerbation

Answer

Participating in group therapy with other trauma survivors

Answer

Beginning trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy

Answer

Engaging in mindfulness-based relapse prevention

Question 2

Which antidepressant class is generally preferred for treating depression co-occurring with alcohol use disorder due to its safety profile and evidence base?

Accepted Answer

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

Answer

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)

Answer

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Answer

Benzodiazepines

Question 3

A CARN is treating a patient with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and opioid use disorder. Which therapeutic approach has the strongest evidence for treating BPD in this population?

Accepted Answer

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Answer

Standard CBT without modification

Answer

Psychoanalytic therapy

Answer

12-step facilitation alone

Question 4

In integrated dual diagnosis treatment (IDDT), the primary advantage over sequential treatment is:

Accepted Answer

Both disorders are addressed simultaneously by the same treatment team

Answer

It is less expensive and requires fewer providers

Answer

Patients must achieve sobriety before addressing mental health needs

Answer

Mental health treatment is prioritized over addiction treatment

Question 5

A nurse notices a patient with major depressive disorder has significantly increased alcohol use over the past week. The most appropriate initial intervention is:

Accepted Answer

Explore the relationship between depressive symptoms and increased alcohol use

Answer

Increase the antidepressant dose without further assessment

Answer

Discharge the patient for violating treatment rules

Answer

Refer to a detox program and discontinue psychiatric treatment

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the 'bidirectional relationship' between mental health disorders and substance use disorders?

Accepted Answer

Each disorder can trigger, worsen, or maintain the other disorder

Answer

Mental illness always causes substance use disorders

Answer

Substance use always causes mental illness

Answer

The disorders are unrelated and must be treated independently

Question 7

A patient with co-occurring ADHD and stimulant use disorder requires medication management. Which medication is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Atomoxetine, a non-stimulant ADHD medication

Answer

Amphetamine salts due to superior ADHD efficacy

Answer

High-dose methylphenidate for symptom control

Answer

Avoid all ADHD medications and rely on behavioral strategies only