Impairment Recognition Flashcards

Which physical indicator is commonly used to recognize drug impairment?

Answer: Pupil size

Pupil size and their reaction to light are critical physiological indicators used by Drug Recognition Experts. Many drug categories, such as stimulants, depressants, and narcotics, cause characteristic changes in pupil size (dilation or constriction) and how they respond to light. These observable changes provide valuable clues about the type of drug impairment affecting the central nervous system.

Which type of drug is likely to cause slurred speech and poor coordination?

Answer: Depressants

Depressants, which include substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, slow down the central nervous system. This slowing effect commonly manifests as slurred speech, impaired coordination, drowsiness, and slowed reflexes. These physical signs are key indicators DREs look for when identifying impairment caused by depressant drugs.

What does a lack of convergence suggest during an eye examination?

Answer: Lack of muscle control

Lack of convergence is an eye examination test where the DRE observes if the eyes can converge (cross) when an object is moved towards the nose. The inability to converge or the eyes drifting apart indicates a lack of muscle control, often associated with central nervous system impairment caused by certain drug categories like depressants, cannabis, or dissociative anesthetics. This test helps assess the subject's ability to control their eye muscles.

Which behavior may indicate stimulant impairment?

Answer: Rapid speech and agitation

Stimulants, such as amphetamines, cocaine, and methamphetamine, accelerate the central nervous system. This often results in observable behaviors like rapid speech, increased heart rate, restlessness, and agitation. These signs are critical for a DRE to identify stimulant impairment, as they reflect the heightened physiological and psychological activity caused by these drugs.

Which of the following is NOT a typical indicator of cannabis use?

Answer: Pinpoint pupils

Pinpoint pupils are a classic indicator of narcotic analgesic (opioid) use, not typically associated with cannabis. Common indicators of cannabis use include red eyes (conjunctival injection), relaxed inhibitions, impaired memory, and altered perception of time. Therefore, pinpoint pupils would suggest impairment by a different drug category.

How does the Romberg Balance test help in impairment recognition?

Answer: Evaluates time perception and balance

The Romberg Balance test requires the subject to stand with feet together, head tilted back, and eyes closed for a specific duration. This test assesses the subject's ability to maintain balance and accurately estimate the passage of time. Impairment from certain drug categories, particularly depressants, dissociative anesthetics, and cannabis, can significantly affect balance and internal clock perception, causing swaying or an inaccurate time estimate.