DUI Substance Abuse Assessment and Intervention Flashcards

Which intervention strategy is recommended for DUI participants who screen positive for mild-to-moderate alcohol problems but do not yet meet full AUD criteria?

Answer: Brief Intervention (BI)

Brief Intervention (BI) is an evidence-based strategy designed for individuals in the pre-treatment range who show risky drinking patterns, using motivational techniques to encourage behavior change.

What does the SBIRT model stand for in the context of DUI and substance abuse intervention?

Answer: Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment

SBIRT is a comprehensive public health framework used to identify, reduce, and prevent problematic substance use through universal screening, brief counseling, and connecting high-risk individuals to appropriate treatment.

Which drug classification does alcohol fall under based on its primary effect on the central nervous system?

Answer: Depressant

Alcohol is classified as a central nervous system depressant because it enhances GABA activity and inhibits glutamate, slowing brain activity and impairing cognition, coordination, and judgment.

Which physical sign is NOT typically associated with acute alcohol intoxication during a DUI assessment?

Answer: Dilated pupils unresponsive to light

Alcohol intoxication typically does not cause significant fixed pupil dilation; that symptom is more commonly associated with stimulant use or certain opioid overdoses.

What is 'blackout drinking' and why is it relevant to DUI education?

Answer: A period of alcohol-induced amnesia indicating extreme intoxication and high crash risk

Blackout drinking occurs when BAC rises rapidly and high enough to disrupt the hippocampus's ability to form memories, indicating a level of intoxication significantly correlated with impaired driving and accidents.

Which population requires special consideration in DUI substance abuse assessment due to atypical metabolism of alcohol?

Answer: Adults over age 65

Older adults metabolize alcohol more slowly due to decreased liver enzyme activity, reduced body water, and increased medication interactions, making them more vulnerable to impairment at lower BAC levels.